Kindergarten is the first step in formal education Most kindergartens are part of the local public-school or private school systems

A child will begin to walk typically as soon as he's developmentally able to For some children this will be at nine months; for others, eighteen months

"Do kids really need a daily bath" No

Even children who have been used to being cared for by others may, as they enter school, develop a fear of being apart from their parents Once again, this reaction is not necessarily a sign of regression but can be due to their increased awareness of the world's dangers

When the time is right for your child to begin a nursery or preschool program, you want him to be ready How can you help your child prepare

"How was school today" "Good

Though all of childhood is an exciting learning experience, the beginning of formal education whether a part-time nursery school program or a full day of kindergarten-is a momentous occasion The best preparation is emotional in nature

When you begin to look for a preschool for your child you'll notice that most of the schools look the same There will be teachers and children and small tables and chairs; there will be children's drawings on the walls and toys on the shelves

Children need help to live within the limits you've established Consequences that help your child understand his behavior and learn to control himself work best, beginning in toddler hood

When your child has a temper tantrum or otherwise acts out, you may find that your own equilibrium is threatened Loving your child is no protection against feeling incredible anger toward him at the same time