The research is clear: children who attend high-quality early learning center programs have better outcomes in kindergarten and throughout elementary school.
But why is early education so important to young children? The skills kids learn in an early learning center provide an ideal foundation for the more complex concepts they’ll learn later on. Children learn to be good listeners, follow a routine, make friends, and contribute to a classroom community. They learn basic math, literacy, and social skills.
While many people imagine a preschool classroom to be loud, messy, or disorganized, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Preschool educators create enriching environments and lots of hands-on learning so kids can learn and grow each day.
This article will detail the importance of early learning centers in a child’s development. Contact the team at New Horizons Learning Center now to learn more about our programs or schedule a tour of our early learning center.
Why is a High-Quality Learning Center Important?
Preschool-aged children are full of joy, excitement, and curiosity. An early learning center can help children learn everything they need before starting kindergarten.
Here are some of the most important reasons to consider sending your child to an early learning center.
Growth and development
Young children are capable of learning new concepts and skills during the preschool years. In fact, research shows children’s brains develop the most during their first five years of life!
An early learning center offers a caring environment and hands-on activities to help children grow, develop, and learn new skills.
Kindergarten readiness
For many years, people have considered kindergarten to be a child’s first “real” school experience. In recent decades, kindergarten has become more academic. Instead of allowing children to play and create, kindergarten now focuses on teaching young kids to read and do math.
An early learning center gives children the chance to play, explore, make friends, and be creative while learning new things. Preschool teachers use unique methods and a play-based curriculum so kids can enjoy themselves while preparing for kindergarten.
Social and emotional growth
Children need to feel safe and secure before they can learn. An early learning center is that it provides a safe, nurturing environment for children to practice independence. This is one of the most important aspects of preschool.
Children learn that they are safe, even when they are away from their parents and caregivers. They develop a connection with their teachers and peers. Children build friendships and practice essential social skills. Some of the social skills they learn include:
- Managing frustration
- Empathy for others
- Setting boundaries
- Asking for help when they need it
- Listening to others’ ideas
- Using kindness and patience with others
These skills can help them be good classroom community members in kindergarten and beyond.
Structure
If you go inside a preschool classroom, you might see what looks like colorful chaos. However, an early learning center is actually a highly structured environment. Kids follow a daily schedule that includes:
- Regular activities
- Learning opportunities
- Special events and celebrations
- Rest
- Meals
- Outdoor play
- Time to transition between activities
A high-quality early learning program is not simply “daycare.” Instead, it provides structured, thoughtful education and play in an enriching environment.
Confidence
Children develop confidence and self-esteem in an early learning center. Participating in activities, learning new concepts, and making friends can give kids a boost of self-esteem.
Often, children feel more confident when they gain independence. In an early learning center, children develop better self-care skills. They also learn how to notice and respond to other people’s needs. This can help kids feel more capable as they approach new tasks in kindergarten and throughout life. They may also have an easier transition into school when the time comes.
Language skills
A “language-rich” environment nurtures preschoolers’ language skills. Young children often have explosive language growth between the ages of 3 and 5. The enriching environment and dedicated teachers in an early learning center can contribute to this growth.
Early education teachers introduce new concepts, words, and ideas every day. They ask questions, read stories, teach songs, and use conversation to boost their students’ literacy and language skills.
Curiosity
Young children are often curious. They may ask a lot of questions about how things work, what will happen next, and many other topics.
An early learning center is the perfect place for children to explore and learn about the world. The engaging environment and responsive teachers support kids’ curiosity. Hands-on, play-based learning encourages children to make guesses about what will happen, test ideas, and learn through experience.
Find an Early Learning Center in Port Richey, FL
If you are a parent and want to explore the benefits of an early learning center in Port Richey, contact the team at New Horizons Learning Center now. We are happy to answer any questions you have or help you schedule a tour of our incredible school.
