I do not write a lot of preschool posts generally because I have amazing friends who do Homeschool Creations & Spell Out Loud to name a few!

But I do have a few “must haves” that have greatly helped out raising a 4 year old … (homeschool or not)

Floor Puzzles – preferably Alphabet ones (I purchased this Melissa & Doug floor puzzle at Home Goods on sale – its 10 ft long).

Washable paint – different sized brushes ! There is no real assignment just creative fun (because when I do suggest something it turns into whatever he wants to do with it anyway)

National Geography Little Kids – or any type of kid appropriate magazine (he will not flip thru his brother’s Reptiles)

Glue sticks & washable markers – the boy loves Homeschool Creation’s FREE preschool packs!

Opportunity to discover & explore, because I don’t know one 4 yr old who wants to sit still for very long. Sometimes we even bury some “treasure” for him to find!  The confidence and pride in “I found it, I found it” is crucial for building self esteem.

A job to do! Everyone loves feeling like they’ve done their part and contributed – preschoolers are no different. (ordering around “pick up your pull-up” might not be what they’re looking for) – but always ask them if they want to help. Or admit you need help. And reward with hugs and kisses for a job well done.  Praise them for “helping” before their daddys!! We all want to hear “well done good and faithful servant”.

Fresh air & FUN! If you’re sitting inside all day long with a preschooler climbing off the curtains while you’re tweeting … get out the house now! Don’t even read the rest of this post!! Young children – especially boys – need activity ! And I’m sorry – but Wii does not cut it.  Take your older children outside to read or give them a 30 minute break.

Time to cuddle. Sure they just saved the universe an hour earlier going across the monkey bars all on their own – but they still need their mama. And I guarantee their cuddle needs are not going to match up with your schedule. So put whatever it is down and hug ‘em. Even if they’re stinky, sticky, wet, or dirty – open your arms and give them the peace of home.

Opportunity to Fail. I witness so many mothers coddling their little ones and doing everything for them … I believe we are creating a selfish, self centered, spoiled brat if we go down this road. It’s ok if our kids lose. My little one’s newest thing is stopping a game before that happens – if we continue to do that he’ll never learn how to lose with grace or handle his emotions. I’m not suggesting we create an army of defeated men – but there are times when they’re going to have to suck it up because bottom line … they lost!

Alone time / Creative Play. Moms – you do not have to schedule, organize, and plan your preschoolers every waking moment. Give them some “free time” to decide what they want to do and how to entertain themselves. I was so overbearing with my oldest – eventually worn out I said, “I’m not your monkey – if you can’t figure something to do I’ll give you some extra chores”. I had made it so he relied on my imagination too often.

Enjoy these moments mom – they grow up too fast !!