Parent Guide
Preschool Readiness Checklist
Most preschools accept children from age 3, but readiness isn't just about age. Here's what to look for — and what to focus on if your child isn't quite there yet.
Social and emotional readiness
- Can spend some time away from primary caregivers without extreme distress
- Can play near other children, even if not always with them
- Recovers from disappointment within a reasonable time
- Can follow simple two-step directions ("get your shoes and bring them to me")
- Shows interest in pretend play or social games
Self-help readiness
- Can eat finger foods or use a spoon mostly independently
- Can drink from an open cup
- Can ask for help when needed
- Is potty trained or actively working on it (many preschools require this — confirm with each school)
- Can put on shoes (even if not tied) and a coat (even if not zipped)
Communication readiness
- Uses words to ask for things, even short phrases
- Can communicate basic needs ("hungry," "potty," "tired")
- Understands and responds to "no" appropriately most of the time
- Can name common objects, body parts, colors
If your child speaks Spanish at home — that's a strength, not a worry. Look for a preschool with bilingual staff so your child can communicate naturally in either language. (Marietta Academy is bilingual.)
Cognitive readiness
- Can focus on a book or activity for 5–10 minutes
- Shows curiosity (asks "why," wants to see how things work)
- Can sort objects by color, size, or type
- Recognizes some letters or numbers (not required, but emerging)
If your child isn't quite ready
That's fine. Most preschool readiness skills develop quickly between ages 2 and 3. If your child is missing several items above, focus on:
- Time around other children (playdates, library story time, the park)
- Practice with simple self-help routines at home
- Reading together every day
- Setting up small predictable routines (snack time, bath time, bedtime)
Some children benefit from one more semester in toddler care before moving up. A good school will partner with you on the timing.
Ready when your child is
At Marietta Academy, our preschool program is built for 3- and 4-year-olds who are ready for more structure, more learning, and more social interaction — without losing the warmth and individual attention that defined toddler care.
Visit Marietta Academy
Ready to See It For Yourself?
Reading helps. Visiting helps more. Free 30-minute tours Monday – Friday at 444 Pat Mell Rd SW, Marietta GA 30060.