Preschool enrolment from age 2: conditions, procedures and advice

Enrolling your child in preschool from the age of 2 is possible, subject to certain conditions. Here's everything you need to know to succeed at this key stage: admission requirements, administrative procedures, advantages and practical advice.

At what age can I enroll my child in preschool?

The official age for starting preschool is generally 3. However, in France, it is possible to enroll your child as early as age 2, provided he or she is emotionally and socially ready, and subject to availability of places.

This early entry often takes place in the "Toute Petite Section" (TPS) of preschool, in public or private schools with suitable places and facilities. The French Ministry of Education even encourages this kind of preschooling to promote equal opportunities, particularly in priority areas. You can consult the official texts on this subject here.

What are the criteria for enrolling your child in preschool from age 2?

Several criteria are taken into account when accepting children from the age of 2:

• Child's maturity (cleanliness, ability to keep up with the pace of the class)
• Availability of places at the chosen school
• Specific needs of the child or family (early socialization, early stimulation)

Advantages of early enrolment in kindergarten

Enrolling your child from the age of 2 offers several benefits:

1. Early socialization with other children: The child learns to interact with other children, to share and to respect simple rules. They integrate into a group and develop their social skills.
2. Enhanced intellectual and sensory stimulation: Through playful, adapted activities, children discover their first notions of language, motor skills, logic and independence.
3. Rapid development of autonomy and language skills
4. Smooth adaptation: An entry into TPS allows a gradual transition to the school rhythm, with staggered reception times and reinforced supervision.

According to Les Petits Culottés, this early entry can even prevent certain adaptation difficulties later on.

Our practical tips for a successful back-to-school season

• Gradually prepare your child for this change by talking to him regularly about school.
• Organize a preceding visit to familiarize him with the school environment.
• Establish routines to ease the adjustment to a new school life.

École M : an ideal setting for first schooling from age 2

At École M, you can enroll your child in preschool from age 2 in a caring, stimulating environment tailored to their needs. Our teaching teams, trained in the needs of toddlers, follow each child's rhythm and offer a variety of activities to stimulate their curiosity, motor skills and independence.

We focus on :

• Sensory and motor awareness
• Language and communication development
• Socializing through play and group activities
• Individualized support so that each child progresses at his or her own pace

Our multi-age classes enable the youngest children to learn from the oldest and progress naturally. The team works closely with families to ensure smooth, gradual integration.

Why choose a first schooling at École M ?

Choosing École M to start school at age 2 means offering your child :

• A warm and reassuring environment
• A caring team attentive to your needs
• A positive and enriching first school experience
• Activities designed to awaken the whole child
• A smooth transition to the rest of his school career

Find out why starting school at 2 can transform your child's life with this article: Why start school at 2?

FAQ : Frequently asked questions about enrolling in preschool from age 2

• Is preschool enrolment at age 2 compulsory?
  No, enrolment at age 2 is optional. School becomes compulsory from age 3.
• What's the difference between preschool from age 2 and nursery day care?
  Nursery day care welcome children up to age 3, while preschool from age 2 gradually introduces children to the school environment through structured learning.
• What should I do if my child isn't ready at 2?
  Respect your child's rhythm: it's better to wait a few months longer than to rush into school.
• Is it easy to get a preschool place from age 2 in Paris?
  In Paris, places are limited, but some schools, like École M, offer early registration.

Further information

Still not sure? Come and visit École M and talk to our teams about integrating children from the age of 2. To find out more about our programs and approach, click here.

You can also consult this resource on the schooling of children under 3 years of age to better understand the issues and procedures involved.

Register your child now

Give your child the best start in school from age 2 at École M. Click here to register your child.

👉 Discover also :

• Understanding the French school system
• Bilingual preschool Paris 20, opening September 2025
• Principles of an inclusive school

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