Preschool Handbook

This excellent primer, the second volume in the Bank Street College of Education's Complete Parent Guide series, brims with information and advice designed to calm parental misgivings, as well as with specifics about what children need in the preschool years and how to ensure that a preschool education meets these requirements. Brenner ( Love and Discipline ) explains that the concept of preschool dates back to the 18th century, and outlines the dominant educational philosophies of today's early-childhood professionals. She then advises parents on the best ways to evaluate programs, supplying a comprehensive checklist to help organize impressions formed during visits to schools that sound promising. Chapters dealing with the developmental and academic issues associated with the preschool years are regularly punctuated with suggestions on how parents can help teachers accomplish their jobs. Brenner further counsels on easing the child's adjustment, focusing on separation anxiety, the establishment of daily routines and such special problems as mainstreaming a disabled youngster. (Jan.)