Pre-K studies find that there may be major drawbacks to pushing academics in preschool. Some research found that the academic gains that students made weren’t significant once they entered elementary school. It’s argued that academically oriented preschools are stressful for young students.
Early academic instruction for young students makes parents feel their children are smarter. The reality is that they are missing the stages of exploration needed to develop imagination and creativity through investigative learning. Today’s parents insist that preschools have value in teaching academics, computer skills, and other skills that will be worthless. An article in Education Week titled “Preschool Studies Show Lagging Result.” demonstrates the lack of positive results of academics in a comparative study conducted in the 1060s and 70s.
Pre-K Positives
Students who attend pre-K programs equalize learning between low-income homes and high-income homes. They prepare students for success in the classroom. Quality programs bond with students and families. The teachers are certified educators. They help students learn to play and get along with each other so students can make friends. Teachers plan activities that invite and include all students. Schools with quality programs include pre-K parents in extra activities.
Quality programs have materials and resources that promote learning. The materials capture a student’s interest and provide a challenge for their learning. Teachers use questioning techniques that spark more interest. Quality pre-K programs have behavior plans that set clear limits and explain the reasons why.
Pre-K programs consider safety. They are clean and safe inside and on the playground. All spaces are warm and welcoming.
Play vs Academics
Pre-K programs incorporate an adaptable curriculum. It includes the need for unstructured free time and guided learning by an adult with a clear goal for learning skills. The curriculum makes academic content meaningful and engaging and is age-appropriate.
Programs for children before the age of kindergarten need to be based on their development and age. They should be goal-oriented and achievable. They need to include free play initiated by the students and directed play under the direction of an adult. They include. listening and following directions.
Quality pre-schools result in kindergarten readiness. Thus, meeting greater success in the elementary grades. The choice of a preschool is one that best fits the needs and personality of the child. Visiting schools helps to determine the best fit for a family’s needs and values.
What Quality Looks Like
Many preschools may look like a fitting place to send a child.
- Organization is important. Students should not wander around uninvolved.
- Worksheets are a definite no. Materials and resources should let students make choices and solve problems.
- Teachers participate in activities, ask questions, and make suggestions to guide learning.
- Teachers help correct behavior, not punish.
- Teachers share information about students’ progress.
Early education is important for every child’s academic success. Choosing the best fit for a family’s needs takes time.
