When it comes to education, there are different approaches one can employ. Finding one that suits your child can be daunting. So here’s a peek at a few popular curricula available in Malaysia.
MONTESSORI
The Montessori Method, developed by Dr Maria Montessori follows a child-centred approach that offers them the freedom to explore activities of their choice, at their own pace. Teachers are present to facilitate rather than to direct the children’s learning. This hands-on method is said to foster independence and encourages individualism.
LANGUAGE IMMERSION
This allows children to learn or master a different language as all subjects are taught entirely in a foreign language. Multilingualism not only opens up more opportunities but is also said to offer immediate cognitive advantages to kids. Studies have shown that children who know different languages have better attention and task-switching capacities.
THEMATIC
This approach involves using a specific theme to teach one or many concepts. Children are taken through various activities connected to a theme, which allows them to make active engagement with their environment. It fosters teamwork and helps children relate academic skills to real-world ideas.
RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS
Religious preschools may offer similar education philosophies and curriculum as other schools, but incorporate reliral gious and often culure con tent. These schools are benefi cial if you would like your child’s education to emphasise the fundamental teachings and values of your religion and culture.
MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES
The theory of multiple intelligences was coined by Howard Gardner who identified seven types of intelligences: verbal-linguistic, logical-mathematical, visual-spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical-rhythmic, interpersonal-social, and intrapersonal-self. Preschools that follow Gardner’s theory offer learning activities designed to engage all of these intelligences.
WHOLE-CHILD EDUCATION
This approach places importance on all aspects of a child’s development, be it physical, social, emotional, cognitive, or language. Whole-child preschools promote a healthy lifestyle, offer physical and emotional safety, and encourage students to learn and play a role in the community.
OTHERS
Waldorf, or Steiner education emphasises the experiential role in learning, and integrates the arts. Right Brain Education taps the potential of the “right brain” functions such as attention, memory, reasoning and problem solving, which contribute to effective communication. The Doman Method introduces visual, auditory and tactile stimulation such as flashcards to teach reading, mathematics and general knowledge.