When leaving pre-school in the morning

Don't - say, "You're not going to cry are you ?" (the child may not have thought of it).

Do – re-assure your child that you will return.

When picking up your child

Do - check the program in your child’s room which details what they did through the day. Young children have trouble remembering what they did but if you give them memory joggers you will be able to talk to them about their day.

Don't - ask, "Do you want to come back?" (They may later be disappointed to find that it’s not an option).

Do - listen and show genuine interest in what the child wants to share with you.

When your child shows you what they made

Be non-judgemental of the craft your child brings home. The end product does not convey the processes that went into making it such as problem solving, social skills and fine motor control.