I am going to include my 4 year old in our school work this year. What do you think is essential? I really want to work  on the alphabet. She can count to 10. (in English and SPANISH! thanks to Dora the Explorer:) She knows most colors. She doesn't recognize numbers by sight though.

She recently began drawing some things that are somewhat recognozable, and when she wants can color in the lines.

What else?

As an early childhood educator, I feel confident in saying that what is most important in the preschool years is using imagination. Storytelling, dressing up, pretend play all set the stage for later communication and writing skills.  Creativity in every area; drawing, open-ended play, process-oriented art work, aids brain development. 

Large motor skills are also essential.  Jumping, running, hopping not only are good for the development of the body but help strengthen the brain connections between the hemispheres, which are crucial.

All the academic skills can be acquired using real items in addition to symbols (numbers and letters).  Playing store teaches math skills using real money (toy money or coins work equally well).  Building blocks help develop design issues, architecture, balance.

Preschool years are an ideal time to read aloud all your favorite books from childhood.  Older books use sophisticated vocabulary and correct grammar. 

Enjoy the preschool years!  They go too fast.

I teach the sounds the letters make instead of the alphabet.  Of course I had a eye doctor who treated me like I was ignorant  because my 4 year old couldn't read the chart. After I said I teach sounds instead of the ABC song.   I really do not much till the are 6-7 years old and they still manage to pick most of it up.  We read, play and do art.  Then when they are older we actually do "school" books.

I just wrote about this topic on my blog: http://lifenurturingeducation.com/2008/08/13/i-did-not-teach-my-children-the-alphabet/

Hope it give you some inspiration!