3 Benefits of Early Childhood Education
The Sponge Era
The question parents ask is, “What can I do to help support my child’s development.” The answer is simple – talk, read, and sing from birth. Many parents don’t realize that learning begins at birth. When you talk, read and sing with your child, it fills their brains with words and thoughts that make all difference to their happiness and future. It also greatly increases their chances of academic and personal success, in grade school and beyond.
When children are young, they are learning sponges. Every new experience, every word they hear, every behavior they adopt, is an investment into their future. Studies show that early childhood education has a strong impact on a child’s school performance and life. Children who attend high-quality prekindergarten programs are more likely to read on grade level, and graduate and succeed in their careers. Because 90% of brain development occurs before a child starts kindergarten, these years are critical.
3 Benefits to Early Childhood Education
1. Socialization
Socialization with people other than the child’s family in a safe environment is an essential foundational element. It allows them to learn how to play with others, share and take turns, and helps them overcome shyness and gain self-confidence.
2. Learning through play
Children practice and reinforce their learning in multiple areas during play. Play provides an opportunity for children to explore hands-on and interactive activities that help develop their curiosity and creativity. These experiences create rich learning opportunities and leads to children’s success and self-esteem.
3. Exposure to diversity
It is important that children understand that everyone is unique and special in their own way with their own culture, beliefs and ethnicity. Early childhood education programs allow children to explore their differences and similarities, and serves as a guide to appreciate and accept differences. This helps them to become well-rounded little beings.
Children begin learning as soon as they’re born. They learn from what they see, hear, and experience and as a parent, how actively involved you are during their first year can change the entire trajectory of your little one’s life.
Champions for Children offers a variety of free, fun programs that build strong bonds between you and your child support healthy child development, and help grow your confidence and skills – all things that will prepare you and your little one for kindergarten and beyond.