How Does Early Education Help Grow a Child's Developmental Potential?

The benefits of preschool have long been debated. Today, however, more and more research shows that children involved in preschool and early childhood education have many advantages when it comes to their development and academic potential. Let’s look at some of the ways that preschool can help children develop.

Personal Interests

School is a wonderful place for children to realize their own personal interests. This is very difficult to do from the confines of home and some children feel intimidated to branch out under the watchful eye of parents or the teasing of siblings. In preschool, though, children can feel empowered to explore. They're out of their normal comfort zones and so they're more likely to feel brave and curious. This gives them a great opportunity to unlock interests and talents that the family may not have known the child had.

Social Development

When we discuss preschool, most people think of the academic benefits. However, one of the most important ways that children are helped during the preschool years is in social development. Before school, many children are at home with a parent or caregiver and other siblings. This is the extent of their social interactions which can be very limiting. Children need to interact with others their age who are not their siblings in order to learn proper social behaviors. Children also need to interact with adults who are not their parents for the same reason. Preschool provides a safe environment where children learn how to respond to others properly.

Academic Readiness

Although children are naturally learning all the time, it's under the influence of targeted learning activities that academic potential can be unlocked. Children will be exposed to learning activities that prepare them for further academic challenges in kindergarten and first grade. Without this academic readiness, children might feel overwhelmed and discouraged by the pace of learning they encounter later on. Children who participate in formal preschool programs are often better equipped to keep up with schoolwork later on.

According to UNICEF, more than 200 million children under the age of five years are not fulfilling their developmental potential. If you're interested in preschool options for your child to ensure they're getting the social, personal, and academic stimulation they need, please reach out to us. We will be happy to discuss our program and enrollment options with you!