Supporting Families Through the Preschool Transition

Starting preschool is an exciting milestone, but it can also bring a lot of questions and emotions for both children and parents. To help families feel confident and prepared for this big step, the Ready, Set, Pre-K program is returning this summer with expanded opportunities for families in the Sheboygan community.

Hosted by the Mead Public Library, the Ready, Set, Pre-K program runs from May through August and is designed to help children who will be entering preschool, along with their caregivers, navigate this important transition. After a successful first year of the program last summer, additional community organizations are joining the program to support families in summer 2026.

The Family Resource Center (FRC) is proud to be a partner in this program, leading a portion of the workshop sessions for both parents and children to build the skills needed for a smooth start to preschool. During each session, children participate in a story time and hands-on activity led by a licensed teacher, giving them a chance to practice listening, participating in group activities, and exploring new learning experiences; skills that will help them feel comfortable when preschool begins. At the same time, parents and caregivers gather for their own session. These parent discussions, led by Allison Oliphant, a Parent Educator at the FRC, will provide opportunities to:

• Learn helpful information about preschool transition
• Create simple activities or projects
• Ask questions and share experiences

The parent sessions in Ready, Set, Pre-K are designed around the five Protective Factors that help families manage stress and support healthy child development:

• Helping Kids Understand Feelings
• Knowledge of Child Development
• Asking for Help
• Inner Strength
• Social Support

These Protective Factors are important tools that help families build resilience. When parents and caregivers strengthen these skills in themselves, they are better equipped to support their children as they learn to navigate new environments, routines, and relationships.

Families who participated in the program last summer shared how valuable the experience was. Many appreciated not only the helpful information, but also the reassurance that they were not alone in the challenges and questions that come with preparing a child for preschool. The opportunity to connect with a Parent Educator and other families who are experiencing the same thing created a supportive and encouraging space for conversation.

The Family Resource Center, in partnership with other local organizations, looks forward to a summer of programming that will help make the transition to preschool a positive and empowering experience.

Stay tuned for upcoming dates and registration details for Ready, Set, Pre-K!