For decades, parents have been torn over the importance of preschool. Some have a hard time sending their four-year-old off to a classroom environment. After all, they’re so small, and kindergarten is right around the corner. Despite these attitudes, early childhood education experts agree — the value of an exceptional pre-kindergarten program cannot be undermined.
Not only does this critical year prepare a child for kindergarten academically, but also physically, socially, and emotionally. Where your child attends preschool matters just as much, too. The highest quality programs integrate learning and play, fostering whole-child development.
Here are six important things local experts want you to consider when it’s time to explore preschool learning opportunities for your child.
1. Intentional Play
Students learn best when their minds are engaged. At age four, nothing’s quite as effective as play. Lessons across various subject areas should be designed to feel like fun and games for your child. Look for less direct instruction, and more hands-on activities that allow students to be fully engaged.
2. Reading Emphasis
Early literacy is extremely important for kindergarten success. Being exposed to a variety of reading materials will accelerate this development, preparing students to form and understand longer, more complex sentences.
3. Collaborative Learning
It is important that students learn to work in collaboration with others before entering kindergarten. After all, working together toward a common goal is not only essential for success in school, but in life. Look for team-building activities and learning centers where students can share experiences with their peers.
4. Nurturing Teachers
Teachers should have a knack for making students feel safe, comfortable, included, and inspired. These special skills will motivate your child to learn while piquing their curiosity.
5. Mathematical Focus
Mathematical concepts are a large part of the kindergarten curriculum. Make sure your child receives a solid foundation through their preschool experience. Young learners grasp math skills best through games, projects, or other hands-on activities.
6. Family Partnerships
As students embark on their journey to school, it is important for parents to be as involved as possible. Learning is enhanced when families are engaged with the skills their children are developing and fostering additional growth at home. Don’t be afraid to ask the school what parent involvement opportunities are available.
Highlands School is Now Accepting Applications
Are you looking for a high-quality pre-kindergarten program for your child? We invite you to visit Highlands School – a local independent school serving infants through eighth grade. The full-day 4K program and unique approach to early childhood education fosters kindergarten readiness and exceptional learning outcomes.
Highlands School’s emphasis on project work begins in 4K. They combine language arts and math with science and social studies. This cross-curricular learning also includes the necessary 21st century skills of collaboration, creativity, communication, and critical thinking. We also ensure there is plenty of time to take advantage of our beautiful campus with outdoor play, as well as participate in our Encore classes including Chinese, French, Spanish, PE, art, music, library, and coding. We believe wholeheartedly that our Highlands 4K program is the best preparation for Kindergarten and invite you to come visit us!
Want to learn more? Click here to find out why so many Birmingham families choose Highlands School. Contact the Admissions team to set up a tour by calling 205-956-9731.
