Research shows that young children can benefit from attending high-quality preschool programs. Preschool can help children gain confidence, learn new skills, and develop other abilities that will help them feel ready for kindergarten.
This article will explore some of the benefits of preschool for three-year-olds. You will discover what children learn in preschool, the benefits of high-quality early learning programs, and how to tell if your child is ready to take this important step.
If you are a parent or caregiver of a young child, contact the educators at New Horizons to learn about our early learning programs. Contact us today to schedule a tour or get answers to your questions. We look forward to meeting you and your child soon!
What Do Children Learn in Preschool?
High-quality early learning programs focus on getting children ready for kindergarten. Studies show that children who attend enriching preschool programs have better outcomes in kindergarten and throughout elementary school.
Great preschool programs use a play-based curriculum to help children develop essential school-readiness skills. Here is an overview of what three-year-olds learn in preschool.
Literacy
While many people think of literacy as just being able to read, it is actually much more than this. Literacy begins at a very early age. Young children must learn about letters, writing, letter sounds, story order, how to handle books, and so much more.
Preschool literacy programs focus on introducing these early literacy concepts in fun, engaging ways. Teachers may read stories, sing songs, use visual aids, and promote early literacy in other play-based ways.
In preschool, young children can develop a solid foundation of literacy skills. They may learn to write their names and other letters, recognize letters, and understand “first, next, last” while reading stories. These skills can help them thrive in kindergarten and beyond.
STEM
Science, technology, engineering, and math are critical subjects in elementary school. Children who get an introduction to these concepts before starting kindergarten may be able to better understand them later on.
Early educators introduce these skills in fun, hands-on ways. Teachers may introduce STEM in the preschool classroom by:
- Offering a wide variety of building materials
- Growing plants in the classroom
- Talking about the weather
- Leading nature walks or exploration
- Reading books about changing seasons, animal habitats, etc.
Children who learn about these ideas may be more excited and engaged to learn about them later on.
Social-emotional learning
Children with strong social skills may feel more confident and comfortable starting kindergarten. They may have fewer behavioral issues, better emotional regulation, and have an easier time making friends.
Preschool educators use a variety of techniques to teach social-emotional skills. They may read stories about feelings, model healthy communication, provide language to help navigate social situations, and more.
Children learn so much during preschool that can support their learning throughout elementary school.
Is My Child Ready for Preschool?
Many parents wonder how to determine if their child is ready for preschool. While some preschool programs accept children younger than three, some expect children to be three before the start of the school year.
However, age is not the only sign that a child is ready to take this important step. Some other signs of preschool readiness include:
- Being potty-trained (daytime only)
- Speaking clearly enough for other non-family adults to understand what they’re saying
- Being able to maintain attention for 5-10 minutes at a time
- Being comfortable with separation from parents or other familiar caregivers
- Being able to follow simple directions, such as “sit down” or “come here”
Talk to your child’s preschool teacher about any concerns about your child’s school readiness. Early learning teachers have a wealth of information and insight about whether children are ready for school.
Reach out to the caring educators at New Horizons to discuss your child’s readiness to begin preschool. We are happy to answer your questions or discuss our programs with you.
Things to Look for in a High-Quality Preschool in Port Richey
Starting preschool is a significant step for young children and their families. Providing a gentle, developmentally appropriate introduction to learning can help your child develop a lifelong love of school.
Here are some things to look for when choosing a preschool for your child:
- Look for a program that offers the hours, location, and educational approach you prefer
- Find a preschool that uses a play-based curriculum
- Look for a preschool that follows a regular daily routine that includes rest, meals, play, and learning
- Ask about the educators’ training, experience, and education level
- Find a preschool that values family involvement and communication
Finding the right preschool doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Find local preschools that meet your needs and schedule a tour to learn more. Then, choose the program that best meets your family’s needs.
Find a Preschool in Port Richey
Contact our educators today to learn about the high-quality preschool programs at New Horizons. Reach out with questions or to schedule a tour. We look forward to meeting you and your family soon!