There are a lot of controversies out there on the essence of preschool to a child’s development. Some people argue that it’s needless because it has fewer academic activities, while others suggest that it’s vital in the social and emotional development of a kid. There’s no doubt that both preschool and kindergarten play an essential role in preparing kids for school, but is one really better than the other?
According to some researchers, preschool provides kids with an academic advantage. A study done by the National Institute for Early Education Research found that kids who attended preschool were more likely to score higher on tests and be placed in lower-level math and reading classes. Read more.
Increased Independence
Sometimes, parents fail to realize how capable their young ones can be because they do every little task such as combing their hair, tying their shoelaces, and feeding them. Although your intentions to do these activities may be out of love and care, if you continue for an extended period, your kid may not learn how to do them on their own.
Sending your child to a preschool Singapore can help them develop independence. In a classroom full of learners, it may be difficult for the teacher to walk around and perform self-care tasks for every kid. That’s why they teach them how to wash their face, brush their teeth, and go to the potty all by themselves.
If your child hasn’t developed the motor skills required to handle these activities, don’t worry. The teachers in these institutions will patiently work with them until they get the hang of it. In no time, they will be doing everything on their own.
Following Directions
It can be frustrating to ask your kid to follow some instructions, but they keep ignoring you. If you’re not patient, you could end up yelling at them. Most parents aren’t aware that following directions is a skill kids learn with time. It isn’t something that happens overnight.
Preschools have activities that help learners to follow directions. The tutors in these learning centers understand the importance of this skill and know how to go about it. Games, art, and other creative activities make it possible for kids to follow instructions while having fun. Within no time, they may start applying this skill when told to line up, clean up their play area, or wash their hands. This can make it easier for them to follow instructions at home.
Adjusting to Kindergarten
If your kid doesn’t go through preschool, by the time they join kindergarten, they may find it very tough to cope with the new environment, follow routines and make friends. Preschools have various programs meant to assist kids to adjust to the kindergarten environment. These include hygiene practices like using the toilet on their own and regular hand-washing; academic activities such as learning the numbers and the alphabet; and social skills like sharing and cooperation.
Additionally, kids who go to preschool Singapore are less likely to need special education services once they get to kindergarten. This is because they’ve had a chance to work on their social and academic skills before starting school. Also, they’re less likely to get into trouble at school, which can lead to expulsion because they know how to behave in a school setting.
Emotional Development
Apart from instilling academic skills, preschools are created to help kids be emotionally intelligent. The environment in these institutions is safe but challenging because it requires kids to control their emotions if they want to co-exist with others peacefully. For example, they need to learn how to share toys, follow instructions from adults, and use gentle words when talking to friends even if they’re offended.
In addition, preschools provide opportunities for kids to explore their emotions and expand their emotional vocabulary. They do this through various activities such as arts and crafts, singing, and dancing. These experiences help them healthily express themselves, learn how to cope with difficult emotions, and build resilience.
Some people argue that emotional development is best achieved at home because that’s where kids feel the most comfortable. However, research shows that preschool children are better equipped to deal with emotions than those who don’t. This is because they’re exposed to various emotions at an early age and learn how to handle them healthily.
Responsibility
Although kids may be enthusiastic about performing a few activities they see their parents handle, such as cooking, washing utensils, or assisting in yard work, they may not be performing them out of a sense of responsibility. As they grow, they may become less excited about such activities and eventually need to be coaxed or bribed into completing them.
In contrast, children in preschool are often assigned simple tasks such as setting the table, pouring their drinks, and helping to tidy up. These activities are a normal part of the routine, and kids learn that they are expected to do their part. Over time, they develop a sense of responsibility and learn to perform tasks without needing to be reminded or bribed.
Summing Up
Preschools offer a rich, stimulating environment that enables kids to explore, learn and grow. If you want to give your child an advantage in life, then sending them to these institutions is a great way to start.
