THE BEST AGE FOR A CHILD TO START EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
Did you know that a 3-year-old’s brain can learn a lot? Starting education early can make the most of this learning time.
Early childhood education helps close the education gap between low and high-income students. Previous research has highlighted a significant difference in the academic abilities of children from low socioeconomic backgrounds compared to those from higher status families. Furthermore, studies indicate that early childhood education leads to higher high school graduation rates, better performance on standardized tests, and fewer students needing to repeat a grade.
WHAT IS EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION?
Early childhood education (ECE) encompasses both formal and informal learning from a child’s early years up to the age of 8. ECE is crucial for a child’s development and plays a significant role in shaping future success and skills. When we talk about the ages for early childhood education, it usually refers to preschool, which means that children between the ages of 2 and 4 are commonly enrolled in early childhood classrooms.
WHEN TO THINK ABOUT EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
In general, it’s never too early to consider enrolling your child in an early childhood education program. Various schools may have specific age criteria for admitting children into their early programs. Since people can always be in a learning mode, even before entering a formal program, parents and individuals involved in a child’s home life can start laying the foundations of education right from birth.
WHAT AGE IS EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION?
Between 15 to 24 months, children can begin developing their vocabulary and refining coordination between their body and the space around them. They also start learning independence by making choices, such as picking their own snack or activity, and taking responsibility for cleaning up after themselves.
Between ages 2 and 3, children continue to advance in cognitive development, speech, manners, language skills, and both fine and gross motor skills. They can be encouraged to develop the capability to wash their hands, dress themselves, use the toilet independently, and tidy up after themselves.
In the preschool years, typically from ages 3 to 6, children begin to unfold their full potential. They can build a positive self-image, foster independence, and acquire new skills at their own pace.
In general, early education can commence as early as 15 months and extend until the age of 6. The decision of when to enroll your child in a program is yours to make, but beginning their skill development at an early age enhances the chances of future success and overall growth.
WHAT DOES EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CONSIST OF?
As per the National Education Association, a quality early childhood education (ECE) should incorporate a comprehensive curriculum that fosters development in all essential areas. The program should cater to the nutritional and familial requirements of the child. Regular assessments will be conducted to identify any concerns and improve the learning process. ECE teachers are expected to be well-qualified and receive fair compensation. Additionally, classrooms should maintain small sizes with low teacher-to-child ratios.
BENEFITS OF EARLY EDUCATION
Getting a good start in education when you’re little helps you a lot throughout your whole life. It sets you up for doing really well in the future.
- Promote brain development
- Help develop 21st century skills to prepare for future success
- Encourage holistic development
- Enhance learning by using age appropriate technology
- Socialize in a safe environment
- Teaches respect for people, belongings, and environment
- Exposure to diversity & the value of differences
Early childhood education programs not only bring mental, physical, and social advantages but also contribute to overall health. Getting quality care from these programs can have a positive impact on learning and development. Regular checks for vision, hearing, and development make sure that kids are well taken care of.
WHY SHOULD YOU ENROLL YOUR CHILD IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION?
Starting school early is crucial because it introduces children to new challenges. Academic skills, such as reading, writing, and basic math, play a significant role in learning and life. The process of acquiring these skills doesn’t wait until kindergarten; most children begin learning how to read around the age of 3.
Babies begin learning by exploring their surroundings and engaging with the adults in their lives. Their learning process becomes more advanced through factors like toys, words, and the way people communicate with them.
The early years of childhood are crucial, as the changes occurring in a child’s brain during this time can significantly impact their future. Research indicates that the progress made in the early stages forms a strong foundation for later learning. Providing enriching experiences during these early years promotes and sustains healthy development as the brain continues to progress.
THE STRUCTURE OF HIGH-QUALITY EARLY EDUCATION
Quality education during the early years is highly valuable. Educators need to be well-trained and capable of imparting the necessary skills and knowledge for a child’s success. A teacher should possess the skills to enhance a child’s knowledge and critical thinking, monitor their progress, establish a conducive learning environment, foster listening and speaking skills, and teach them about books, letters, numbers, counting, print, and language sounds. The curriculum should be carefully designed, offering diverse opportunities for exploration.
The program should incorporate a mix of individual, small, and large group activities to enhance both learning and socialization skills. The schedule should be structured in a way that allows children to follow it without feeling hurried to complete essential tasks.
ENROLL YOUR CHILD IN THE BEST EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
At Shir-Hashirim Montessori, we’ve been recognizing the uniqueness of each child’s learning abilities since 1985. Our dedicated and qualified teachers put in the effort to understand each child and provide them with the knowledge necessary for their individual success. We establish a well-prepared environment that fosters a child’s highest potential. Feel free to contact us today or schedule a tour now!
