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Preschool has become an increasingly popular option for parents regarding their children’s education. However, there are a lot of different things to consider when making the decision of which preschool is right for your child.
This guide will walk you through the pros and cons of preschool, how to choose the right one and what to expect from this substantial educational milestone.
What are the benefits of sending your child to preschool?
- Preschool provides a safe and structured environment for children to learn and play.
- It offers a chance for socialization and peer interaction.
- It also helps prepare children for kindergarten by teaching them basic academic and social skills.
- It can support identify any developmental delays or disabilities a child may have.
- Can provide a break for working parents or parents who need some time to themselves.
There are many benefits of preschool that both the child and parents can enjoy. One of the benefits of preschool is that children can learn about social interactions by socializing with other children their age. They will learn how to interact with others, share and take turns. This is important as they will need these skills when they start kindergarten or elementary school.
Preschool also encourage children to develop their academic and social skills. They learn how to count, read and write. It helps your child prepare for school and beyond. In addition, preschool teaches children essential life skills such as how to follow the rules and be respectful of others.
These skills will help them in their future personal and professional relationships. Overall, preschool provides many benefits for children that will help them in their academic careers and future relationships. If you are considering sending your child to preschool, research the different preschools available and find one that best suits your child’s needs.
In Malaysia, what is the age limit for preschool?
The age limit for preschool in Malaysia is 4 years old. Therefore, your child must be 4 or older on the 1st of January to attend preschool. If your youngster is younger than four, you may want to enroll them in a playschool that provides activities focused on fundamental kid development skills such as fine motor abilities, creative abilities, gross motor skills, and early mathematical concepts.
What is the difference between preschool, kindergarten, and playschool?
Nursery school, playschool, preschool, kindergarten, and all types of early childhood education. The main difference between preschool and kindergarten is that preschool is not mandatory, while kindergarten is.
Preschool is a voluntary educational program for children aged 3 or 4. On the other hand, kindergarten is compulsory for every Malaysian child aged 5 years old. Playschool is a type of play-based learning preschool where children learn through play. Activities at playschool usually focus on social development and more creative hands-on programs, such as art and music.
Choosing the right preschool for your child.
When choosing the right prekindergarten for your child, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important things to look for in a preschool is accreditation. In Malaysia, all preschools must be registered with the Ministry of Education. The preschool should also have a valid license from the relevant authorities. This is to ensure that the preschool meets the minimum standards set by the government.
Another critical factor to consider is the preschool curriculum. Preschools in Malaysia use one of three types of curriculum: KSSR, Montessori, Multiple Intelligence, or Reggio Emilia. Each type of curriculum has its own unique approach to early childhood education.
Montessori
Montessori focuses on independence, hands-on learning, and self-directed activity. This method is suitable for curious children who like to explore their surroundings.
Multiple Intelligence
Multiple Intelligence emphasizes learning methods such as music, movement, and visual arts. This type of curriculum is suitable for children who are kinesthetic or visual learners.
Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia is a play-based learning approach that uses project work and collaborative learning. It is thought to value early childhood education by encouraging exploration and collaboration. Projects are often completed as a group, and students are encouraged to ask questions and explore their surroundings. This learning environment benefits children by allowing them to learn through play and develop relationships with their peers.
Kurikulum Standard Sekolah Rendah (KSSR)
KSSR is a Malaysian Primary Curriculum. It aims to provide integrated content to nurture children’s interest in learning and lifelong learning. This will help them to develop their critical and creative thinking, allowing them to exercise their natural curiosity and explore knowledge.
All of these styles of education embrace the notion that children have excellent learning potential in various ways. With the proper tools, your children will make connections independently through effort and play.
So what is the best early years’ education for your child?
You are in control of your child’s education, so you must ensure that they get a decent education, so select the school option that is ideal for them. When choosing this course of action, trust your instincts. Simply said, early childhood education aims to help children develop emotional, social, and cognitive skills that will enable them to become lifelong learners.
What characteristics should you examine when choosing a preschool?
When choosing a preschool for your child, visiting the preschool and meeting the teachers are essential. This will give you a good idea of the preschool’s environment and whether or not it is a good fit for your child. It is also essential to ask about the preschool’s discipline, attendance, and vaccination policies. Here’s the factor you should consider when choosing an early years education for your child.
Curriculum
One of the most important factors is the preschool curriculum. Make sure that the preschool you are considering has a well-rounded curriculum covering all areas of child development, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. This will assist them in developing a good solid foundation for their emotional development.
Teacher’s qualifications
Educated, attentive, and caring teachers are essential for preschool education. In addition to having a degree in early childhood education, preschool teachers should also have ongoing training in child development and psychology. Kids should have an exciting time in the childcare center, and a fun preschool environment is the most important thing to consider.
Location
The location of the preschool is another crucial factor to consider. You will want to choose a preschool close to your home or workplace. Sending your children to a childcare center near your workplace has many benefits:
- It will save you time since you can drop off and pick up your children without going far.
- It will allow you to continue working uninterrupted, knowing that your children are in good hands.
- Sending your children to a daycare center is often cheaper than hiring a nanny.
Extracurricular activities
Extracurricular activities are not necessary, but they can be a nice perk. Some preschools offer extracurricular activities such as dramatic play, sports, music, or dance. In addition, cross-curricular activities involving numerous disciplines may help youngsters acquire new abilities, meet new people, and make friends so they will not be anxious when transitioning to the next early education stage.
Safe and clean environment
When visiting preschools, pay attention to the safety and cleanliness of the premises. It should be clean, safe, and spacious. There should be plenty of room for your child to explore and play. The safety of your child is always the top priority. When visiting preschools, pay attention to the school’s safety measures, such as CCTV, fire extinguishers, and first-aid kits. The preschool should also have a policy in place in case of emergencies.
School fee
The preschool’s fee is also an essential factor to consider. Preschools can be expensive, so make sure that the preschool you are considering is affordable for you. The fee should be reasonable and based on the preschool’s location. These are just a few factors to consider when choosing the right preschool for your child. Do your research and visit the preschools you are considering before making a final decision.
Once you have considered all of these factors, it is time to visit the preschools on your shortlist. This will allow you to see the preschool in person and get a feel for its atmosphere. Pay attention to how the teachers interact with the children and whether they seem happy and engaged. Observe the children and see if they seem to be enjoying themselves. After visiting each preschool, you should know which one is right for your child.
So, how do you choose the right preschool for your child? It can be a daunting task with so many choices available. But by using the tips in this article and asking the right questions, you can feel confident that you’re making the best decision for your family. Do you have any questions about finding or choosing a preschool? Let us know in the comments below – we’d love to help!