Kindergarten for preschoolers is about a combination of learning and having fun, both of which are important for early childhood development. As referenced by Scholastic Parents, kindergarten will provide a smooth introduction to Primary School, setting the stage for the rest of their education.
The ideal setting is a rich learning environment where children can engage in play, whilst also developing their skills through intentional teaching. Within this article, you’ll discover the typical skills kindergartners learn in a high-quality environment.
Effective Teaching Methods for Kindergarten
As referenced by Deborah Towns of Swinburne University, over the past few decades, the optimum set up was to combine the teachings of kindergarten with long-day childcare, which led to the creation of early education centres in Australia.
Teaching kindergarten in an early education environment is a skill, and it requires specialised Early Childhood Teachers and Educators to devise lesson plans for a kindergarten curriculum that young children can both relate to and engage with. Learning for kindergartners isn’t all about academics, it’s about providing an environment with kindergarten themes that are fun as well as educational.
As approximately 90% of a child’s brain development takes place by the time, they reach the age of 5, it only makes logical sense to commence an effective combination of learning and play during this developmental stage of life.
What do children learn in a high-quality kindergarten program?
Learning
Children form their foundation of learning while engaging in their Kindergarten environment. Children have the opportunity to engage in experiences which include mathematics, literacy, language development, self-regulation and developing independence. These are only a few ways children are supported to become confident and capable learners.
Thinking Skills
Education and learning aren’t merely about memorising information and being able to repeat it. The ability to think for themselves, problem-solve, question things in the bid to find answers and generally think outside the box is an attribute every child will benefit from for the rest of their lives. Children learn these vital skills through puzzles, construction play, memory and concentration exercises, and engaging in other meaningful learning experiences.
Learning Social and Communication Skills
Within the kindergarten environment, with an eclectic mix of children as well as adults, young children will develop all-important social skills and also the ability to communicate with both their peers and their teachers and educators. As children interact during various activities, their social and communication skills naturally develop. This also leads to an increase in self-esteem and self-confidence.
Creativity Plays a Pivotal Role
Creativity in the form of art, drawing, dance, and music helps children learn to become their own confident self. That’s the beauty of creativity. Children will indulge in all these creative experiences, as well as role-playing to develop their self-expression, which is both fun and educational. Creativity also helps young minds develop the ability to think.
Mind and Body Activities
Activities for mind and body have been developed to enhance a child’s physical and mental health and overall wellness. This is achieved through activities like yoga and meditation, to name a few. Children also partake in a variety of physical activities and sports to promote the development of fine and gross motor skills, strong muscles, balance, flexibility, coordination and more.
Another vital aspect of a mind and body program is teaching young children about the importance of good nutrition. Eating healthy food and developing the desire to do so sets children up with strong minds and bodies for the rest of their lives. Children are provided with delicious meals each day that are good for them, further enhancing their appreciation of nutritional food.