Article Courtesy by – www.futurekidz.ind.in
“The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn.” – Maria Montessori
In today’s time, early education has become a crucial decision that parents need to make after considerable thought. Playschool admissions have become an overwhelming task of finding a stimulating environment that encourages curiosity and independence. After all, it is the children’s first social outing where they learn to socialize and embark on the journey of formal learning. It is all the more important during the current crisis of COVID-19 when a safe environment is of paramount importance.
Here are a few tips that can help parents in deciding the best playschool for their children.
Points to Keep in Mind While Selecting a Playgroup for Your Children
1. The Child’s Personality
It may be surprising to know that even kids below 5 years have a personality of their own. While a few may be bundles of tremendous energy, others may have a quieter temperament. Some may need more structure in their environment, and others may need the freedom to explore them. It may help the parents to observe their children and their needs to finalize the right school for them. Finding a school that allows the children to expand their physical and mental boundaries should be a priority.
2. The Connection Between Teacher and Child
Teachers play a significant role in children’s lives. A teacher who understands their psychology can encourage them to explore and learn. Moreover, a skilled teacher will ensure that the child’s environment is high on sensory activities, rich in language, and full of life skills. An engaging teacher who doesn’t just stand in a corner will be able to build a stronger connection with the children.
3. Teacher-Child Ratio
More often than not, children do not get personal attention, especially in bigger schools. In playschools and daycare, kids need individual attention. They may feel lost if they do not get the right focus. Also, each child’s pace of learning is different, and they may fall behind if not given the attention they need. A playschool with an optimum teacher-student ratio can give your child the right learning environment.
4. Futuristic Curriculum
Parents want their kids to be Mentally, Physically, and Intellectually ready for the future. Early Education is the first step towards it, so comes the importance of a curriculum that can prepare the kids to be responsible & successful human beings. The curriculum should focus on the continuous improvement for the child today and in the future, should be innovative, thematic, encourages curiosity & self-learning, and be value & skill-based. It is imperative for any School not just to develop the students’ for the present but also to prepare them for the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.
5. Focused on Self-Learning
Our world is evolving at such a fast-pace that it may be overwhelming to keep up. What is relevant today may lose its significance in a couple of years. An atmosphere that focuses on self-learning and initiative is imperative for future-ready kids. A learning environment that encourages children to think, adapt, and relearn can help them in the long-term. They will grow up to be happy individuals who are productive in their work and content with what they have and do.
6. Kid-Friendly Environment
It is advisable for parents to evaluate the playschool’s environment and check whether it is perfect for their kid’s growth. Firstly, it should be clean and orderly. Secondly, the layout and decor of classrooms should encourage the freedom to express. The parents should be able to view methods and tools that children are comfortable to use. Lastly, the classroom should be strewn with learning stations and items that encourage sensory play.
Conclusion
Finding the right kids’ school can be a challenging process. However, it is worth the effort to put your children on the right path to a life-long journey of learning and discovering. To make the process easy, parents can focus on a friendly environment and engaging teachers who encourage children to explore and learn.