Preschool is a time for your child to learn all of the basics before attending school, such as learning to be around other children, sharing, listening to someone that isn't a parent, and following directions and following rules. Preschool teaches other things as well to prepare your child for school, but there are things you should teach your child as well before he attends preschool. Read on for a few things you should teach your child.

Name

Your child should be able to answer to his or her own name. They should be able to listen for their name and be able to answer when being called. If your child doesn't know his or her own name, you need to work on this at home. Stop using nicknames at home and begin using your child's actual name so they know to answer to this at school. You should also begin to have your child recognize their own name when it's written out as well. Begin to teach your child to recognize their name when written out, as well as how to spell their name, and how to write their name. Once they have their first name down, begin teaching them their last name and finally their middle name as well.

Colors and Shapes

Teach your child colors and shapes, at least the basics. Your child should be able to recognize these things and you should have these items at home to help teach your child. If you don't have any shapes at home, you can draw them out and help teach your child with what you have drawn out. Color the shapes differently and have them name the shape and the color. Do this often and change up the colors of the shapes to make it more challenging.

Parts of the Body

Young children should know their own basic body parts and be able to point to them. By preschool, they should be aware of these parts and be able to point to them, as well as know their proper names. You also should teach your child about private parts and what is and isn't appropriate.

If your child is going to be going into preschool, it's a big step in your child's education. They will learn quite a bit in preschool, but there are still a lot of things you should teach at home as well. Teach your child the basics listed above, as well as other things to help educate your child and prepare them for school. Talk to your child's preschool teacher, like those at Learning Tree Schools and other schools, about other things they should know before entering preschool.