Tips for Encouraging Good Behavior at Preschool

How Can We Encourage Good Behavior at Preschool

As parents we have the hardest job. Guiding our young kids, teaching them how to socialize safely then correcting their bad behavior when things go wrong . In my experience this was all hard to do prior to covid, but now as we enter what they call the never ending "covid endemic phase," the task feels even more daunting.

Children are no longer able to read your facial cues. They socialize less with kids their own age. Making it harder for children to understand what's appropriate and what's not appropriate behavior.

So how do we elicit the behavior we want? Or at least encourage it?

Simply put, children quickly learn how to behave when we give consistent and positive guidance. This is something we can easily practice at home, before we drop them off at school.

ProActive Strategies:

1) Use a Visual Schedule so he knows what to expect; because seeing is knowing and understanding.

Construct a diagram on a board for both easy and difficult tasks.
It can also be used for non- preferred tasks and activities around the house.
In my experience it's best to put activities they do not prefer first, followed by something they really enjoy.
My favorite cards can be found on Amazon: ASIN B09MD26MDC

2) State the positive behaviors you want to see, in a positive way (as much as you can).

Tell him what you want him to do (not what he shouldn't do).
Safe/quiet hands vs no hitting
Safe/quiet feet Safe/quiet hands vs no kicking
Sit down vs don't get up
Listen vs stop talking
Inside voice vs no screaming
If need be show him behavior cards
My favorite behavior cards can be found on here on Amazon ASIN B00JNUSDWA

3) Use a positive behavior chart as a reward system.

Show them that good behavior is worth its weight in gold.
Target only 1-2 behaviors at a time until you see change or success
Reinforce the behavior you want to see.
Choose the most challenging behaviors first
Reward positive behavior immediately! Don't wait.
Create or buy a positive behavior chart (Amazon Chart Example)
Decide on the reward together (ie. Candy, a new toy, cartoon time.)
Use it right way when you see positive behavior
Make the experience fun; our brains are conditioned to learn more when they are relaxed and not overly stressed.

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How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Day of Daycare

February 19, 2026

The first day of daycare is an exciting milestone, but it can also bring big emotions for both children and parents. At Alpha Kids Academy, we work closely with families in the San Francisco, Novato, and Menlo Park, CA areas to help make this transition as smooth and positive as possible. With a little preparation, your child can begin their daycare journey feeling confident, secure, and ready to learn. Talk About Daycare Ahead of Time Children feel more comfortable when they know what to expect. Start talking about daycare several days or weeks in advance. Describe it as a safe, fun place where they will play, learn, and make new friends. Use positive language when discussing preschool and childcare so your child associates the experience with excitement rather than anxiety. Reading books about daycare or role-playing drop-off routines can also help younger children understand what the day will look like. Establish a Consistent Routine A predictable routine helps children feel secure, especially when they are very young. Before daycare begins, adjust bedtime and morning schedules to match what your child will follow during the week. Consistent wake-up times, meals, and naps can reduce stress and make mornings easier once daycare starts. This structure supports healthy transitions and prepares your child for a preschool environment where routines play an important role in learning and development. Encourage Independence at Home Simple skills like putting on shoes, washing hands, or cleaning up toys can boost your child’s confidence at daycare. Practicing these habits at home helps children feel capable and comfortable in a childcare setting. Independence also supports smoother classroom transitions and helps children feel proud of their growing abilities. Visit the Daycare Together If possible, visit the daycare with your child before their first official day. Seeing the classroom, meeting teachers, and exploring the space can reduce fear of the unknown. Familiar surroundings make it easier for children to separate from parents on their first day. At Alpha Kids Academy, we believe that strong relationships between families, children, and teachers are key to a successful daycare experience. Keep Goodbyes Calm and Positive On the first day, keep drop-offs brief and reassuring. Let your child know when you will return and follow through on your promise. A calm, confident goodbye helps your child feel safe and supported. Even if there are a few tears, most children adjust quickly once they become engaged in activities and connect with our caregivers. Trust the Process It’s normal for children to need time to adjust to daycare. With patience, consistency, and encouragement, most children thrive in a nurturing preschool environment. Quality childcare supports social development, early learning, and emotional growth during these important early years. At Alpha Kids Academy , we are proud to support families in San Francisco , Novato , and Menlo Park, CA by providing a safe, engaging, and welcoming daycare experience that helps children grow with confidence.