Early years set stage for success
Children learn vital skills through play at preschool and playschool
The early years can really set up your child for a successful transition to school.
The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University has emphasized the importance of the development of executive function skills, such as working memory, inhibitory control and mental flexibility. It notes that children are not born with these skills and, if not developed during the early years, a child’s academic success is later impeded.
“An enriched early learning program can also procure important cultural capital benefits in the areas of language, socio-emotional development and identity formation,” says Amoriza Gunnink, owner of Kinderhouse of Springbank Hill.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
While most preschools target the same age group — children from ages two-and-a-half to five — the core difference lies in the philosophical approach espoused by the program and, therefore, the materials and learning opportunities the children get.
“For the most part, they are all similar with the exception of Montessori, which is quite a different philosophy than preschools and playschools,” says Mireille Berge, owner/director of Little Steps Preschool Ltd. in Calgary and Airdrie.
“In my opinion, preschool and playschool should be the same. Children need to learn through play. We set up learning experiences for children that are very hands-on.”
In Montessori schools, specific materials are provided to children. Preschools, playschools and Montessori schools typically offer programming in school and in the community, while JK has fouryear-olds in the school setting.
WHAT THEY LEARN
Programs can vary at different locations. “Preschool is designed to get children out of the home and learning in a fun educational environment,” Berge says. “We focus on teaching children how to be peers in a classroom, how to share, how to take turns and patience.”
Preschool also sets up children in the areas of math, language and communication, says Gunnink, who adds, “Greater gains and growth are also noted in fine and gross motor skills, resilience and self-confidence and socioemotional development.”