5 Lessons We Teach Preschoolers (That Adults Can’t Seem To Remember)

1. If you put it down, it’s no longer “yours”.

This is applicable to dolls, trucks, crayons, and ex-boyfriends.  If you walk away from something to move on to another activity (or relationship), you can’t claim both as your own.  In the words of the overplayed yet somehow still unpopular Disney song, let it go.

2. “You get what you get, and you don’t get upset”

Whether it’s getting an orange Popsicle when you really wanted a red one, or missing yet another opportunity for promotion at work, life is going to throw you some curve balls.  In times like these, you have two options: whine and complain, or keep on rollin’ with the punches.  Orange popsicles may not be everyone’s favorite, but they’re actually a pretty cool color, and maybe you’ll get that red one next time.  In the mean time, make the best of it and enjoy the ride.

3. When you fall down, you get back up; if you can’t get back up, don’t be afraid to ask for help

For young children, preschool is an early glimpse at independence.  For a few hours each day, they are responsible for their bodies and their choices without the usual guidance of watchful parents.   With this taste of freedom comes the classic struggle of autonomy – do we help ourselves when we struggle?  Do we ask for help?  Sometimes, it’s as small as a scraped knee from falling off the swings.  Other times it’s things a bit…bigger (I’m sure we each could consider a time we’ve needed help).  Regardless, you can’t be afraid to reach out to those willing to lend a hand; sometimes we just need it.

4. Don’t be afraid to get a little dirty

Has anyone actually ever started a story with the words, “Well, I took the safe route and it turned out absolutely UNBELIEVABLE”?  Nope.  In order to get the goods in life, sometimes you have to take a few risks, dig around in the dirt, and really get your hands in there.  Sure, it may mean your overalls aren’t as clean as they were when you put them on this morning, but that 42 cents you found in the sandbox was totally worth it, don’t you think?

5. If you feel grumpy, you probably just need a nap

Sometimes we don’t know to make our minds slow down. Every once in a while, we need to just stop and give ourselves a break within the hectic schedule for some “me time”.  Preschoolers are a perfect example of what happens when you don’t get that time to relax: you get cranky, crabby, and noticeably unpleasant to be around.  Don’t be that guy.