Your cart is currently empty!
Why I’m Choosing Not to Enroll My Son in Preschool
“Is he starting school soon?”
That’s a question I’ve been hearing since my little guy, now two, took his first steps. It comes from everyone—other parents at the playground, curious nannies, and even distant relatives.
Why is there such a fixation on my toddler’s education?
Honestly, I’m neutral about preschool—I believe in doing what’s best for our family. I understand that many parents need full-day preschool due to work commitments, and for some, it’s simply not in the budget. For those who can afford it, preschool can be a delightful experience for kids and a welcomed break for parents. Our older son attended preschool, and it was a fantastic journey for him.
However, I take issue with the notion that young children must dive into formal schooling early on. The prevailing belief that skipping preschool could lead to future educational challenges is something that doesn’t sit well with me.
Why the Rush?
So, I’ve been pondering: Why the rush to get kids into a school setting? Are there aspects I’m missing? I’ve observed many toddler programs marketing themselves with promises of educational benefits. When our older son attended preschool, he received progress reports detailing his learning milestones. But honestly, I think that’s a bit much.
What do toddlers and preschoolers really do all day? They might be crawling in the grass searching for ants—that’s science. Or running around counting dandelions—sounds like math to me! Even turning the library upside down to find a book with a big red truck? That’s reading!
It’s not that I don’t engage my kids in learning or that children can’t absorb knowledge from different environments. I happily teach them letters, shapes, and numbers if they express interest. But let’s face it: not every kid is ready for structured learning at a young age, and that’s perfectly okay.
The Reality of Learning
Having spent time in classrooms full of toddlers, I can tell you that when they’re all wriggling on the carpet and tossing plastic food at one another, not much formal learning is going on. Real education happens through one-on-one interactions, hands-on experiences, or simply by being in the moment.
Sure, preschool can be a fun avenue for kids to socialize, but it’s not the only option. Playdates serve similar purposes, and children learn by exploring their surroundings, enjoying storytime, and having freedom to soak it all in.
My Approach
As a mostly full-time mom, I have the luxury of taking a laid-back approach to schooling. My son turns three this fall, but I haven’t enrolled him in preschool. Unlike his older brother, he doesn’t seem quite ready yet (he’s also six months younger). We’ll stay active with playgroups and fun activities to keep him engaged—and I’ll definitely be asking Grandma for some babysitting help to maintain my sanity!
Above all, I cherish the unstructured time to let him learn at his own pace. I’ll introduce him to numbers, letters, and the joy of reading if he’s curious. I’m also focused on teaching him about kindness, love, and friendship.
If he shows interest down the line (and if it fits our budget), I might consider enrolling him in preschool. But I won’t rush him, and I’ll keep my expectations grounded. While preschool can be enriching, it’s not an essential part of a child’s education. Learning, discovery, and play can thrive outside formal institutions. I wish more people would acknowledge this and appreciate the many wonderful paths children can take to grow and flourish.
Further Reading
For more insights on parenting and family journeys, check out this post on home insemination. If you’re interested in learning more about the intricacies of the fertility journey, this resource is a great place to start. And for those seeking more information about pregnancy and home insemination, Progyny offers excellent guidance.
In summary, the decision not to send my son to preschool stems from a belief in letting him learn and grow at his own pace, without the pressure of formal education. Each child is unique, and there are countless ways to foster their development outside a traditional classroom.