Over the past few weeks, I have been meeting with the parents of the children in my class. I love these conferences because they give us time to talk about each child as a whole person.

We talk about what makes their child happy, what they enjoy at school, where they are growing, and which areas still feel difficult.

As I listened to each family, I noticed the same questions and concerns coming up again and again.

When should my child be fully potty trained?

Why does every transition turn into a struggle?

How do I get my child to eat something besides chicken nuggets and macaroni and cheese?

What should I do when my child has a tantrum?

How do I help my child manage big emotions?

Why does my child cry at drop-off?

Is this behavior normal for a three-year-old?

These questions are common because the preschool years bring rapid growth. Young children are learning how to communicate, follow routines, manage frustration, separate from their parents, play with others, and become more independent.

That is a lot of work for a three-year-old.

It is also a lot for parents and teachers, especially before the first cup of coffee.

After 12 years of teaching young children, I have seen many parents worry that they are doing something wrong. Most of the time, they need practical information, realistic expectations, and a plan suited to their child.

Preschool development does not follow one exact schedule. One child might use the potty independently but struggle with separation. Another might walk into school happily but eat only three foods. A child who speaks well might still have difficulty expressing anger without screaming, crying, or dropping to the floor like a tiny award-winning actor.

Children grow at different rates and in different areas.

The goal is to understand what the behavior is communicating and help the child build the next skill.

This is why I am starting a new blog series for parents and teachers of preschoolers.

The series will cover:

• Potty training without pressure or shame

• Making transitions easier at home and school

• Supporting picky eaters

• Responding to tantrums

• Teaching emotional regulation

• Helping children with separation anxiety

• Building social skills and friendships

• Setting clear, age-appropriate boundaries

• Encouraging independence

• Knowing when a behavior is typical and when to seek extra support

Each post will focus on one concern. I will share what I have learned in the classroom, what I discuss with families, and practical strategies to try at home or at school.

You will not find promises of perfect behavior. Preschoolers are still learning. They will have hard days. They will test limits. They will refuse the blue cup because they wanted the other blue cup. Yes, they look exactly the same. No, this information will not help in the moment.

That is part of being three.

Children need adults who stay calm, remain consistent, and teach skills in ways they understand. Parents and teachers also need support, especially when the same problem happens every day and everyone has already tried counting to ten.

I am also beginning work on a new book for parents and teachers of preschoolers. It will bring these topics together in one practical resource.

My goal is to create the guide I wish every family received when their child entered preschool. It will explain what is happening, why it is happening, and what to do next.

Parent conferences reminded me how much families want to help their children. They are not looking for judgment. They are looking for answers.

This series is for them.

It is also for every teacher who has answered the same potty-training question before finishing her morning coffee.

If you care for a preschooler, I hope you will follow along. We are going to talk honestly about the hard parts, celebrate the progress, and help young children develop the skills they need.

Which preschool challenge would you like me to cover first?