Starting preschool is an exciting but often challenging milestone for young children and their parents. In India, where the preschool enrolment rate has grown steadily, nearly 60% of children aged 3-5 are now enrolled in some form of early childhood education, according to the Ministry of Education. However, adapting to this new environment isn’t always smooth. Studies indicate that around 30-40% of preschoolers experience separation anxiety and other adjustment-related issues, including preschool behaviour problems and emotional problems in preschoolers, within the first few months.
15 Common Problems of Preschoolers and How to Solve Them
For parents, understanding and addressing common preschool problems, from behavioural struggles to social anxieties and other developmental problems of preschoolers, can make all the difference. Let’s take a look at the key issues faced by preschoolers in India, why they happen, along with practical tips to support your child’s growth and confidence as they embark on their early education journey.
1. Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a common preschool problem in India, affecting over 30% of children starting school. Many preschoolers struggle with leaving parents, showing behaviours like crying or clinging, which are typical emotional problems in preschoolers adjusting to a new environment.
Why it Happens
Separation anxiety usually occurs because preschool is an unfamiliar setting filled with new faces, routines, and expectations. Young children often feel uncertain and look to their parents for security, making separation challenging.
How Parents Can Help
- Create a routine: A consistent morning routine helps children feel secure and prepared.
- Positive goodbye ritual: Use a simple, predictable goodbye gesture, such as a wave, to make transitions smoother.
- Talk about preschool: Mention exciting activities or friends to shift the focus to positive experiences.
- Encourage independence: Let children practise small tasks at home, like packing their bag, to build confidence.
- Be consistent: Avoid “sneaking away.” Reassure your child that you’ll be back, building trust.
2. Fear of the Unfamiliar and Attachment to Comfort Objects
Fear of new experiences and attachment to comfort objects are common preschool problems. Studies show that about 40% of preschoolers show distress in new situations, often clinging to a favourite blanket or toy for reassurance. Comfort items help children feel secure in unfamiliar settings.
Why it Happens
Children are used to the comfort of home, so new faces and routines can be intimidating. Comfort objects offer them a sense of security in these unfamiliar settings.
How Parents Can Help
- Introduce new experiences gradually: Familiarise children with preschool by visiting together or discussing it positively.
- Allow comfort objects initially: Let them bring a small comfort item, phasing it out as they adjust.
- Reassure consistently: Let them know it’s okay to feel nervous, and remind them they have support.
- Encourage independence: Promote small acts of independence at home to build confidence.
- Model calmness: Maintain a positive attitude toward new experiences, as children often take cues from parents.
3. Testing Boundaries and Defiance
Testing boundaries is a natural developmental phase for preschoolers as they seek to explore their independence. Research shows that around 25% of children this age display defiant behaviours, often saying “no” or ignoring instructions as they test limits. This behaviour can be challenging for parents but is essential for children’s growth and understanding of social boundaries.
Why it Happens
As children gain independence, they naturally start testing rules to understand where limits lie. This behaviour isn’t about disobedience but rather a way for them to learn through exploration and experience.
How Parents Can Help
- Set clear expectations: Make boundaries clear and simple. Preschoolers thrive when they know what’s expected.
- Be consistent: Consistency reinforces boundaries and helps children understand rules over time.
- Offer choices: Giving choices (e.g., “Would you like to pick up toys now or in five minutes?”) provides a sense of control within the boundary.
- Praise positive behaviour: Reinforce good behaviour with praise, showing children the positive outcomes of cooperation.
- Model patience: Handling defiance calmly shows them that boundary-testing doesn’t lead to confrontation, encouraging respectful behaviour.
4. Handling Emotions through Aggression
When adjusting to preschool, many children struggle with expressing emotions appropriately, which can sometimes result in aggressive behaviours like hitting or biting. Studies indicate that around 20% of preschoolers display aggression as a way to communicate frustration, often due to the new routine and social environment.
Why it Happens
Preschoolers may not yet have the language skills to express emotions, so frustration can manifest as physical actions. They are still learning appropriate ways to communicate their needs and emotions.
How Parents Can Help
- Acknowledge their feelings: Let children know it’s okay to feel frustrated and that there are other ways to express it.
- Teach alternative expressions: Encourage them to use words or calm-down techniques instead of physical actions.
- Model gentle behaviour: Show kindness and patience in your own interactions; children often mimic adult behaviour.
- Reinforce positive responses: Praise instances where they express themselves calmly, reinforcing good communication.
- Stay calm: Respond to aggression without anger, showing that calm responses are effective.
With these approaches, children can gradually learn to handle their emotions in a healthy, non-aggressive way.
5. Difficulty with Sharing and Socialising
Many preschoolers struggle with social skills such as sharing, which can lead to conflicts in group settings. Statistics show that nearly 30% of preschoolers find it difficult to share toys or attention, which is typical in early social development.
Why it Happens
Preschoolers are in the early stages of understanding social dynamics. Sharing doesn’t come naturally; it’s a skill they develop over time as they learn about cooperation and empathy.
How Parents Can Help
- Practise sharing at home: Use games to practise turn-taking and sharing with siblings or friends.
- Explain the concept: Talk about how sharing helps everyone have fun and make friends.
- Praise sharing efforts: Reinforce sharing with positive feedback, so they recognise its value.
- Set an example: Show sharing in everyday situations, like offering family members food, as children often learn by example.
- Be patient: Understand that this skill develops gradually; guide them gently rather than enforcing sharing.
These methods can help children become more comfortable with sharing and cooperating in social settings.
6. Building Early Friendships
Forming friendships is a new experience for many preschoolers, and some may face challenges with it. Research shows that about 25% of children in this age group struggle with forming early friendships, which can impact their social confidence.
Why it Happens
Preschoolers are still developing social and emotional skills, and navigating friendships can feel overwhelming. Learning to interact, communicate, and manage conflicts with peers takes practice and guidance.
How Parents Can Help
- Encourage playdates: Arrange one-on-one playdates to help children develop social bonds gradually.
- Discuss friendship skills: Talk about how to be a good friend—listening, sharing, and being kind.
- Role-play scenarios: Use role-play to practise resolving conflicts or communicating with friends.
- Model healthy friendships: Demonstrate positive interactions in your own friendships to show them what supportive relationships look like.
- Support without pressure: Be there to encourage them, but avoid putting pressure on making friends quickly.
7. Imitating Adult Behaviours or Language
Preschoolers naturally imitate the people around them, often picking up on both positive and undesirable behaviours or language. Studies suggest that over 35% of preschoolers regularly mimic adult behaviours, which is part of their learning process but can sometimes lead to challenging situations.
Why it Happens
At this age, children learn by observing adults, imitating actions, words, and reactions to understand social norms and behaviours. They may not yet distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate behaviours.
How Parents Can Help
- Model positive behaviour: Show kindness, patience, and polite language in everyday interactions, as children are likely to replicate this.
- Address inappropriate language calmly: If they pick up unsuitable words, explain calmly that certain words are not appropriate to use.
- Reinforce good behaviour: Praise positive behaviours they imitate, reinforcing desirable actions.
- Encourage empathy: Teach them about the impact of words and actions on others to build social awareness.
- Set boundaries gently: Correct their behaviour when needed but avoid overreacting, as strong reactions can sometimes reinforce imitation.
By modelling positive behaviour, parents can guide their preschoolers toward respectful actions and language.
8. Delayed Speech or Communication Skills
Some preschoolers experience delays in speech and communication, which can affect their confidence and interactions in group settings. Approximately 10-15% of preschoolers show signs of delayed language development, making communication a common concern.
Why it Happens
Speech and language development vary widely among preschoolers. Factors such as individual development pace, home language exposure, and limited socialisation can contribute to delays.
How Parents Can Help
- Talk regularly with them: Engage in frequent conversations, describing daily routines and activities to build vocabulary.
- Read together: Reading helps expand vocabulary and comprehension, and encourages a love for language.
- Encourage questions: Prompt them to ask questions, which fosters curiosity and language development.
- Limit screen time: Interactive communication is more beneficial than passive listening, so encourage conversation over screens.
- Consult a specialist if needed: If delays persist, consult a speech therapist for guidance on how to support their development.
These strategies can help children improve their communication skills, boosting confidence in their interactions.
9. Hyperactivity and Short Attention Spans
Hyperactivity and short attention spans are common developmental problems in preschoolers. Statistics indicate that over 20% of preschoolers display signs of high energy and difficulty focusing, which can be challenging in structured settings like preschool.
Why it Happens
Preschoolers are naturally energetic and curious, with developing self-control. Sitting still and focusing for extended periods may not align with their developmental stage.
How Parents Can Help
- Incorporate active play: Provide time for physical activities to channel their energy productively.
- Break tasks into short segments: Use short, engaging activities that suit their attention span.
- Minimise distractions: Reduce background noise or distractions during activities that require focus.
- Practise patience-building games: Games like “Simon Says” or “Freeze Dance” can help develop self-control.
- Avoid excessive screen time: Encourage hands-on activities that stimulate their senses and encourage focus.
10. Frequent Colds, Minor Illnesses, and Small Injuries
With the increased exposure to other children and new environments, preschoolers are more susceptible to frequent colds and minor injuries. Studies show that preschoolers can catch up to 8-10 colds annually, which is common as their immune systems are still developing.
Why it Happens
Preschool introduces children to a shared environment, where germs spread easily. Additionally, their natural curiosity often leads to minor injuries as they explore and play.
How Parents Can Help
- Encourage good hygiene: Teach regular handwashing and covering coughs to reduce germ spread.
- Keep vaccinations up to date: Ensure vaccinations are current to protect against common illnesses.
- Dress appropriately for weather: Weather-appropriate clothing can help prevent illness due to temperature changes.
- Provide a healthy diet: Nutrient-rich foods can support their immune system.
- Supervise play: Encourage safe play to minimise minor injuries, especially during active exploration.
These steps can help reduce frequent illnesses and minor injuries, promoting a healthier preschool experience.
11. Picky Eating and Nutritional Challenges
Picky eating is a typical preschool behaviour problem, often causing nutritional concerns for parents. Studies indicate that around 25% of preschoolers exhibit selective eating habits, making it challenging to ensure balanced nutrition.
Why it Happens
Preschoolers are developing independence and control, which often extends to food preferences. New tastes and textures can seem intimidating, and they may reject certain foods as a way to assert choice.
How Parents Can Help
- Offer variety without pressure: Regularly introduce new foods without forcing them, allowing children to explore at their own pace.
- Involve them in meal preparation: Participating in simple tasks can make them more interested in trying the food they helped prepare.
- Be patient with preferences: Avoid battles over food, as repeated exposure often leads to acceptance over time.
- Make meals enjoyable: Create a positive mealtime environment, where eating is associated with fun and family time.
- Ensure balanced options: Offer a variety of healthy choices so that even if they pick selectively, they’re getting nutrition.
With gentle encouragement, children can gradually expand their palate and meet their nutritional needs.
12. Toilet Training Setbacks
Toilet training regressions are common among preschoolers, especially as they adjust to new routines. Statistics show that up to 20% of children experience occasional setbacks in their toilet training during preschool years.
Why it Happens
Adjusting to a new schedule and environment can cause temporary regressions in toilet training. Stress, excitement, or distractions may lead to occasional accidents.
How Parents Can Help
- Keep a relaxed approach: Stay calm and avoid reacting strongly to accidents, as pressure can increase stress.
- Set a schedule: Encourage regular bathroom breaks to create a routine that aligns with preschool schedules.
- Offer gentle reminders: Remind them subtly about bathroom breaks, especially if they’re focused on play.
- Provide support items: Items like extra clothes or wipes in their bag can give children confidence.
- Acknowledge progress: Celebrate small successes in toilet training to encourage consistency.
With patience and a supportive approach, parents can help their children regain confidence in their toilet habits.
13. Dependence on Screens for Entertainment
With screens becoming a common tool for entertainment, many preschoolers develop a reliance on digital devices. Recent studies indicate that over 60% of preschoolers in urban areas have daily screen time, often exceeding recommended limits.
Why it Happens
Screens are often used to keep children occupied or calm. However, too much screen time can limit opportunities for physical and social play, both essential for preschool development.
How Parents Can Help
- Set screen time limits: Establish clear limits for screen use, ideally no more than an hour a day.
- Offer alternative activities: Encourage outdoor play, reading, or hands-on activities as alternatives.
- Model healthy habits: Show balanced screen habits yourself to set an example.
- Use screens intentionally: Choose educational content and watch together when possible to make screen time interactive.
- Reward screen-free time: Reinforce screen-free time with praise or other rewards to encourage a balanced approach.
These strategies can reduce reliance on screens, fostering healthier entertainment habits in preschoolers.
14. Curiosity About Bodies and Differences
As preschoolers become more aware of themselves and others, they often show curiosity about bodies and physical differences. Studies suggest that about 15% of parents report questions about bodies from their preschoolers, a natural part of growing self-awareness.
Why it Happens
Preschoolers are curious and observant, often noticing differences in people and their own bodies. This curiosity is a normal developmental stage as they learn about identity.
How Parents Can Help
- Answer simply and honestly: Use age-appropriate language to satisfy their curiosity without overwhelming them.
- Encourage body respect: Teach respect for their own and others’ bodies, setting a foundation for healthy boundaries.
- Avoid overreaction: Respond calmly to questions to show it’s okay to ask.
- Use books as resources: Children’s books about bodies and diversity can help provide context.
- Reinforce privacy boundaries: Teach them about private areas and personal space in a gentle manner.
These approaches can help children understand and respect body differences while satisfying their natural curiosity.
15. Learning Basic Hygiene Habits
Learning hygiene habits is essential at this age, but many preschoolers struggle to maintain routines independently. Research shows that up to 40% of preschoolers need reminders to follow basic hygiene practices.
Why it Happens
Hygiene habits are new skills for preschoolers and require consistency. They may not yet understand the importance of practices like handwashing or covering coughs.
How Parents Can Help
- Make hygiene fun: Turn handwashing and other hygiene tasks into games or use songs to encourage consistency.
- Model hygiene: Demonstrate good hygiene habits in daily routines for them to observe.
- Use positive reinforcement: Praise their efforts to reinforce these practices.
- Offer visual reminders: Place visual cues like handwashing posters in bathrooms.
- Practise together: Brush teeth or wash hands together to make hygiene a family routine.
How Parents and Preschools Can Work Together to Solve Common Preschool Problems
A strong partnership between parents and preschools can make a significant impact on helping children overcome common preschool problems. When parents and teachers collaborate, they create a consistent, supportive environment that allows preschoolers to feel more secure and adapt smoothly to new routines, social skills, and behavioural expectations. Regular communication and aligned routines between home and school help children navigate challenges like separation anxiety, sharing, and managing emotions effectively.
Quick Tips for Collaboration
- Maintain open communication: Share updates on progress and challenges for a unified approach.
- Establish consistent routines: Align routines between home and school to help children feel secure.
- Reinforce behaviour strategies: Use similar behaviour management techniques to support positive actions.
- Promote shared goals: Focus on social, emotional, and learning goals that both parents and teachers encourage.
- Celebrate progress together: Recognise achievements at home and school to build confidence and motivation.
Give Your Child the Best Start with KLAY Preschools and Daycare
Navigating the ups and downs of preschooler development is easier with the right support. At KLAY Preschools and Daycare, we blend expert care with a nurturing environment to tackle common challenges like separation anxiety, social skill-building, and developmental milestones. Our trained educators use play-based learning, structured routines, and empathetic guidance to foster confidence, curiosity, and emotional resilience in every child. With holistic foundation development programs designed to address picky eating, toilet training, and communication skills, KLAY ensures your little one thrives both socially and academically. Partner with us to create a joyful, stress-free foundation for lifelong learning.
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