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Backed up by years of research, it is now clear that preschool learning centres are essential for a child’s healthy development. Young children are naturally observant and curious. Which is why this special time is the perfect opportunity to prepare your child for the demands of school and to give them a headstart in their learning.
Why should your child attend preschool?
Preschoolers, starting from age 3, gain many benefits from attending a preschool learning centre. At this age, children are like sponges that pick up every ounce of information, and are still hungry for more. They also benefit from having other children around them, and evidence has shown that an early learning environment sets the foundation for a love of lifelong learning, as well as setting them apart from their stay-at-home peers in terms of readiness for kindergarten.
The best preschools in Sydney promote learning
Preschool programs aren’t about sitting kids down and ‘teaching’ them. Instead, they learn through fun activities like storytime, playing with blocks, etc. For example, to help kids learn language and strengthen their pre-reading skills, educators play rhyming games. To teach pre-math skills, educators might get children to count food items during snack time, use a calendar to count down days, or play memory games with them.
Preschool teaches them how to handle emotions
A key factor in growing up is learning how to deal with emotions and how to express yourself.
Socialisation is one of the best ways for your child to develop emotionally. In a group setting, children have to learn to get on with their peers. For example, they have to learn how to share toys and games.
This way they grow emotionally, learning how to regulate their emotions and becoming more self aware. This is an early milestone that aids their general development.
- Language
Speaks in full sentences, and uses words to express needs and wants.
Understands two-step directions.
- Reading readiness
Enjoys listening to stories.
Recognises their own name and tries to write it.
Can draw a picture to express an idea.
- Numbers
Can count from 1 to 10 without skipping numbers.
Recognises and names basic shapes.
- Self care
Uses the bathroom and washes up on their own.
Can say their first name and age.
- Social and emotional
Can separate from a parent or carer without getting too upset.
Interacts with other children.
- Fine motor skills
Uses a pencil with some control.
Can put together a simple puzzle.
- Gross motor skills
Can run and climb stairs. Can jump on one foot. Bounces a ball and tries to catch it.
How many days should a 3 year old go to preschool?
As early learning professionals at Young Academics, we understand that early learning is essential in helping children develop, but we often get asked the question, ‘How many days a week should my child attend to ensure they are receiving the benefits of early learning?’.
Knowing how many days in childcare are right for your child is often based on individual circumstances, but an ideal amount of time for a 3-year old who hasn’t attended daycare is about 2 days. This gets them into the rhythm and structure of preschool without it being too much of a sudden change. From the age of 3, children thrive in a preschool environment. Even if they gained all the necessary academic learning through homeschooling, they would still miss out on the social aspects of preschool, where they learn so many skills – simply by spending time with their peers.
Our approach to learning
At Young Academics, we understand the importance of the formative preschool years in terms of your child’s emotional, cognitive and physical development. Our educators will prepare your child for school by instilling passion for education and practising real-life situations using our engaging programs and activities.
Our Transition to School program is designed to develop foundational skills, providing fluid transition into Early Stage One of the Australian School Curriculum. It prepares every child for the structure and discipline of learning at school.
Discover which preschool learning centre is right for your child
At Young Academics, we focus our attention on equipping preschoolers for the next stage in their life – the transition to school. We prepare your child for school through an intentional and connected framework of activities, resources and facilities, while engaging them in both the physical and psychological aspects of learning.
If you’d like to find out more about our preschool program and how we get your child ready and excited about kindergarten, call Young Academics today on 1300 668 993 to book a tour.
