Introducing Preschoolers to the Concept of Time: Fun Ways to Teach Daily Routines
February 3, 2025
Understanding time can be tricky for preschoolers. It’s not something they can see or touch, so it can feel a little abstract. However, introducing time to children in simple, fun ways can help them learn how to manage routines and make transitions easier. Teaching young kids about time doesn’t just prepare them for kindergarten—it also helps them feel more confident and organized in their daily lives. Here are some easy and engaging ways to help preschoolers start learning about time.
Why Learning About Time Matters
Preschoolers thrive on routine. Knowing what to expect and when helps them feel secure and confident. By introducing the concept of time, you’re giving them tools to:
• Understand Routines: Learning about time helps kids move smoothly from one activity to the next, from playtime to snack time.
• Build Problem-Solving Skills: Recognizing sequences (what happens first, next, and last) supports their ability to think logically.
• Develop Independence: Understanding time helps children take small steps toward managing their own activities.
Fun and Simple Ways to Teach Time
Use Visual Timers
Preschoolers love seeing things happen in real-time. A sand timer or colorful countdown clock can make time more tangible. For example, say, “You have five minutes to tidy up!” and let them watch the timer count down. It’s a great way to help them connect time to their actions.
Create a Picture Schedule
A picture schedule can help kids understand their daily routines. Use simple images like a toothbrush for morning time, a plate for lunch, or a bed for bedtime. Arranging these pictures in order gives them a clear idea of what happens throughout the day.
Play “What Comes Next?” Games
Games are a great way to teach time-related sequences. Use cards or photos to show familiar activities, like putting on shoes, getting in the car, and going to school. Ask them, “What comes next?” It’s a fun way to practice problem-solving while learning about routines.
Sing Songs About Time
Preschoolers love music, and songs make learning time concepts fun and easy. Tunes like “The Days of the Week” or “What Time Is It?” help kids remember time-related ideas through repetition and rhythm.
Explore Time with Toy Clocks
Introduce kids to clocks with movable hands. Show them how the big hand and little hand work together. For example, “When the big hand is here, it’s lunchtime!” Pairing clocks with their routines helps them connect the concept of time to real life.
Read Books About Time
Storytime is perfect for introducing time! Books like “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle are great for teaching about days, sequences, and the passage of time in a way that’s easy to understand.
Relate Time to Everyday Activities
Use simple, familiar events to explain time. For instance, you can say, “First, we’ll play outside, and then it’s time for lunch.” Relating time to things they already do helps them make sense of it.
Helping Preschoolers Learn, Step by Step
Teaching time to preschoolers doesn’t have to be complicated. By using visual aids, games, songs, and everyday examples, you can help them start to understand routines and sequences in a way that feels natural and fun. These small lessons build confidence and make transitions smoother, giving kids the tools they need to navigate their day.
Looking for more tips to help your preschooler learn and grow? Visit the Les Enfants Preschool blog for ideas and resources!
