How Many Days a Week for 3 Year Old Preschool?

My girls go to preschool starting at 2 years old. For 2 year old, 3 year old and 4 year old preschool they have gone M-W-F from 9a-12p. My 3 year old right now has a late birthday (November) and she actually has been in the 2 year old preschool room for 1 1/2 years. I really feel that they benefit from it, regardless of whether they are shy and introverted or outgoing and extroverted - I've had both. When she started going last year, she barely said anything. I'm not kidding that within a month, she was talking up a storm. My first one went into that 2 year old room, said goodbye, and started playing. My second one kicked and screamed and clung to my leg. Within a week, she was saying goodbye and playing and asking why she couldn't go to school when it was an off day. I don't think the curriculum is any different whether they go two days or three days, but if the question is whether 3 days is too much - you'd be surprised, the answer is no. They get an extra day of crafts/playtime and all the kids love it. Be prepared for the first week of school crying, screaming, pleading, etc. The teachers are prepared for it and they will tell you too the best thing to do is just leave. Give them a quick kiss, tell them you will be back when school is over and leave. They won't be crying when you come back I guarantee it.

Our Park District Program is 2 half days for the 3 year old program and 3 half days for the 4 year olds.

Our park district has preschool in the park and for 3 year olds it is 2 half days a week. When they are 4, it is 3 half days a week. I sent my daughter there and she loved it and now my son, age 3, is going and it is just enough for him. I thought it may be too much for my son because he turned 3 in July and preschool started in September, but he loves going to "school" like his sister.

My very young 3 year old has special needs so he goes 5 days a week for 2 1/2 hours. He LOVES it. I think the structure is very good for him. I was reluctant because I thought it would be too much for him, and I really wanted him home some days so we could do things together. It is working out great for everyone though. Gives me time to spend alone with my 8 month old (or to get stuff done when the baby is sleeping).

My 3 year old twin girls go to school 3 days a week. They go to Immanuel Lutheran in Batavia from 12:30 to 3. They like it a lot.

I agree with M R comment. And it's really what you think your kids will adapt too best and also what works for you. Although surprisingly, us moms don't give our kids as much credit.

For us, we plan to do 2-day at 3-yr program, 2.5 hours, 3-day at 4-yr program, 2.5 hours and then obviously 5-day when they are 5yr.

Have they ever had the experience of consistently participating in a playgroup atmosphere without you being present, or is this going to be their 'first time away from mom'? That might influence your decision.