For most children, a preschool class is their first experience interacting with peers and being away from the comfort and security of home. While it may seem daunting to drop your child off at school when they are so young, nothing could be better for their growth and future development than a holistic early childhood education program. Preschool is the very beginning of a child’s academic journey where little ones develop social, emotional and physical skills. Preschool classes lay the foundation for future success by ensuring school readiness in a multitude of ways:
Familiarity with Structure, Routine and Instruction
It is in the preschool classroom that children first start learning how to follow simple instructions and basic school routines. The development of relationships with teachers and other children are formed as preschoolers are introduced to classroom dynamics and skills such as the raising of hands and the asking-and-answering of questions for learning.
Learning Responsibility, Self-Efficiency and Confidence
The transition from home to preschool marks a significant milestone in a young child’s life. While it may be exciting, many children find the move overwhelming. Thus preschool presents itself as one of the first challenges young children need to overcome. Dealing with separation from parents or caregivers and confronting the anxiety associated with a new environment and engaging in preschool activities is an accomplishment for a young child. This is important for preparing them to cope with future challenges, adapting to new situations and developing their sense of self-esteem.
In addition, preschool reinforces vital concepts such as responsibility and self-efficiency, as children are required to care for their own belongings and respect others’ property. As children realize their own capabilities within the safe and secure environment of the preschool classroom, they grow in confidence which informs their attitude and approach towards learning in general.
Playing and learning in a group setting is vital for the development of communication and language skills. Just by speaking with others, children expand their vocabularies; learn how to communicate their thoughts and feelings, as well as how to listen to others. Crucially, the preschool class gives children the opportunity to develop emotional awareness by learning how to gauge and respond to others and develop self-regulating behaviors which will enable them to express their emotions in appropriate ways.
Nurturing Academic Potential in an Age Appropriate Context
The preschool classroom is where young children learn the very basics of literacy and mathematics. Through song, play and simple teaching, children are exposed to counting and the letters of the alphabet. From here, children learn how to differentiate sounds, read, write and develop numeracy skills. The greatest benefit of a preschool education is that children’s cognitive and problem-solving skills are developed in fun ways that promote creative thinking and imagination, which is ideal for their age.
Improved Motor Skills
In the preschool class, the development of both gross and fine motor skills is improved through play and activities such as painting and coloring. This is for most, the very first step in preparing to write by hand – and while typing is the most modern form of written communication, many academics would argue that the pen is still mightier than the keyboard!
Parkland Children’s Academy is a family-oriented preschool that is dedicated to laying solid foundations through education, safety, health, and development in a fun and friendly environment.