Why is Preschool Important?

Enrolling your little one in a quality preschool can benefit them in more ways than one. While a lot of parents are still skeptical about the thought of sending their kids to school at a young age, they don’t realize that children can gain a lot from attending preschool. In preschool, children  get exposed to the fundamentals of ABC’s and 123’s. They also get the chance to play and learn with other kids which helps develop their emotional and social skills.

Difference between childcare and preschool

Childcare or daycare centers are typically an option for working parents who need someone to care for their kids during the day. While these centers cater to babies and toddlers, preschools offer an early childhood educational class for kids 3 to 4 years old. In both daycare centers and preschools, experienced and well-trained teachers provide children with stimulating and educational activities. They offer programs that nurture cognitive, as well as emotional and social development.

Importance of preschool

Sending a child to a high-quality preschool is an important decision for both parents and children alike. During the child’s early years, they learn at a rapid rate because this is when brain development is highest. Their brain is a like a sponge that easily absorbs and stores new information. When a child attends preschool, they will benefit from the program, instructions and the age-appropriate materials. It is in preschool that children learn their first letters and numbers. However, kids are not asked to sit down and simply listen to the teacher’s lecture. They learn through fun and stimulating games and activities. Teachers provide them with activities that pique their interests. They have storytelling, singing, and play time with toys. They learn language and reading by playing rhyming games and by telling stories.

Preschool may be a little more structured and where kids learn while having fun. Aside from nurturing academic growth and development, it is in preschool that kids acquire social skills. Social skills are important for children to learn at this age. Kids need to learn how to interact, listen, accept, apologize, help other kids and work with them. They are given plenty of opportunities to foster and build relationships with their peers.They also learn  that the world does not revolve around them alone.

Many parents worry that sending their kids to preschool will only make them grow up too soon. That is not the case. Preschool will not interfere with the important play time that your little one needs and deserves. A high quality preschool curriculum is based on learning through play. So rest assured that learning will be fun and interesting for your kid. There’s no doubt about it!

Choosing the right preschool

Choosing the right preschool is key to ensuring that your child is better prepared for kindergarten and beyond. Before you pick a preschool, start by creating a list of the most important qualities you are looking for. Is the location important?  Is the schedule convenient? Is the program and curriculum up to date? As soon as you have your list, ask for recommendations from friends and family and other parents. Then do further research by checking the schools’ websites online.

Once you have narrowed down your list to about 2 or 3 preschools, take time to visit each school before making a final decision. During your visit, check out the basics first. Check if the facility is clean and safe. Check if the outdoor play area is well-kept and secure. Are there age-appropriate toys and materials? Are the classrooms in good condition and conducive for learning? Does the preschool environment have a friendly and fun atmosphere? As you pay attention to these details, don’t forget to find out more about the teachers. Learn about their training and credentials. Find out more about their background and experience when it comes to dealing with children.

Sending your child to a high-quality preschool can significantly impact their future academic success. Give your child the strong educational foundation they deserve by sending them to the best preschool in Tampa – Creative Learning Academy.