To preschool or not to preschool, sometimes that is the question. Your child is getting to that age. As a parent, you’re wondering if putting them in preschool is the best decision. A major factor is knowing what exactly your child is going to learn. Preschool offers a foundation for a child that prepares them to step into grade school. It’s a catalyst for the success they will find in the future. Here are five fundamentals you can expect your child will learn in preschool.
1. Social Skills
When entering school years, social skills are extremely important. The way your child interacts with adults and other children is vital for their success. In preschool, children gain valuable experience interacting with the people around them. Often, preschool is their first real opportunity to develop social skills they will use for the rest of their lives. Being in a classroom setting allows them to learn how to interact with peers through teamwork and sharing. It also develops the way they take direction from teachers.
2. How to Follow Directions
Another basic but sometimes overlooked skill is the ability to successfully follow directions. Preschool is a great opportunity for a child to learn this fundamental. A good preschool will start this practice out slowly so that a child can first understand the basics. This will not only prepare them for success once they go to grade school, but it will also develop their ability to follow directions at home. As a parent, this is an all-around win!
3. Emotional Development
Guiding your child through emotional development can be a lot of work. In their preschool years, children experience a vast range of emotions. It can be extremely overwhelming and difficult for them. In preschool, teachers can take the time to help a child understand what it is they are feeling and why they are feeling it. For parents, this is helpful because sometimes a second opinion if very useful. Together, parents and the preschool can partner to help a child understand and work through the emotions they are feeling in this very delicate and developmental time.
4. Problem Solving
As a child grows and makes their way through grade school, there are going to be a lot of opportunities for problem-solving. These will arise both inside and outside the classroom. Being able to tackle a problem with the right mindset will be key for them. Teaching this at an early age is vital, and preschool is a great first steppingstone. They will learn to problem solve through smaller, more manageable problems so that when they’re older, they have a great foundation for how to solve bigger ones.
5. Self-Directed Activities
The ability to self-direct or self-manage is an important skill to have as a child. Knowing how to properly keep themselves busy will deter them from getting into trouble. It will also ensure that they’re getting done what needs to be done. An elementary-aged student will find themselves with homework and other responsibilities that they may have to lead themselves through completing. In preschool, this is taught at an early age. Allowing children to play quietly by themselves, do busywork, and manage some of their projects are a few ways they can start to develop great self-directing skills.
Each of these fundamentals was derived from the curriculum offered at Connection Point Early Learning Center. We believe these things will allow your child to grow and develop in the best way possible. With a strong foundation built in preschool, they will be ready to conquer their next steps in the future.