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Early childhood education begins as early as infancy and goes until children reach kindergarten. This is an important time when it comes to children’s development. Exposure to their environment, hearing sounds, and learning the building blocks of language all play key roles in your child’s growth and development during this period. This post answers the question, “Why is early childhood education important?”
Throughout these early years, early childhood education programs are beneficial as they help children start to build the foundational skills they’ll need for school.
Why is Early Childhood Education Important?
Improved academic performance
According to studies, kids who attend early childhood education programs become stronger students when they reach the K-12 levels. Before children enter kindergarten, they have already begun learning the basics of math and reading.
Another study from Harvard has shown that early childhood education lessens the need for children to receive special education services, and boosts the chances of successfully graduating from high school.
Other research reveals complementary results in terms of graduation statistics and academic performance.
Promotes lifelong learning
Among the powerful advantages of early childhood education is that it instills a love of learning that can last for a lifetime. During children’s preschool years, they discover the world around them. This is made possible through fun games and activities during lessons.
When children are exposed to knowledge from an earlier age, it creates a sense of curiosity to learn and find out new things. Their thirst for knowledge increases as well. Children who attend early childhood education programs tend to also display increased confidence and self-esteem.
Improves socialization
Social skills of kids who take part in an early childhood education tend to be stronger. Little ones acquire necessary life skills, including sharing, listening, and taking turns with other children.
Preschool teachers lead lessons through a variety of games, stories, rhymes, and other activities that foster appropriate social interactions among children. Play is an essential part of learning the social skills needed to interact with others throughout their lives.
Kids also learn how to express their emotions effectively and clearly through social interactions. Whether they’re happy, sad, or angry, enhanced social skills enable them to more effectively manage their feelings. When children are together in a group, it enhances their listening skills. And since there are more children than adults in the classroom, children learn the importance of taking turns as well.
Increased attention span
Research has proven that children tend to learn more new things during their younger years. Their concentration is typically shorter than those who reach kindergarten and beyond. Currently, maintaining children’s focus can be even more challenging for parents because of the ease of accessibility of technology. This is why it’s important to give children an early start on their education, this can boost the amount of information they can retain in the long run.
Provides STEM skills foundation
During the preschool years, children are exposed to STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Math, and Engineering). They can boost their STEM skills and analytical skills through early exposure to these subject areas.
STEM jobs will always be in high demand. That’s why it’s important to enrich children’s interest in these subjects.
When looking for an early childhood education program, ensure that your chosen school and teachers have the necessary tools to encourage children to learn about STEM concepts.
Little ones are often further inspired when learning in a group. As they see other children working hard at an activity, they tend to be motivated to do the same. In a group setting, children must exert concentration and effort in order to complete a challenging task.
Improves creativity
Most children love to paint, make arts and crafts, and get messy! The great thing about early childhood education programs is that they give children plenty of opportunities to be messy and creative. Art projects are an essential element of early childhood programs.
Another way to enhance children’s creativity is through music. Early childhood development programs feature classes that involve singing, dancing, clapping, and other exciting activities that can help with children’s fine motor skills. Singing is a great way to establish coordination between the brain and body. Creative activities are excellent for a child’s overall development.
Keeps children healthy and active
Children can become bored easily when they sit in one place for extended periods of time. That’s why education experts are backing the development of curriculum and programs that focus on learning through physical activities.
When kids go to schools that instill the importance of movement, they learn to be healthy and active. Early childhood programs will expose your child to activities where they can run around and explore their surroundings.
Whether children are engaged in active sports or merely playing tag with their friends, the most important goal is that they are moving. Providing activities that promote an active lifestyle helps children in the long run.
Lifetime benefits
The takeaways from early childhood education lead to lifelong benefits for children. Overall success, healthy growth, and development are all linked to the overall positive effect it will have on your child.
At Young Scholars Academy, we understand the many benefits of a quality early childhood education program. Our programs are built around children’s lifelong success. Contact us today for more information.