One of the most important responsibilities parents have is supporting their child’s development at each stage. This can sometimes be challenging. Kids’ needs change so quickly as they grow. How can parents make sure their children get the enriching education they need at every developmental stage?
Enrolling infants in preschool can help set your child up for success. Dedicated educators and evidence-based curriculums ensure all children learn the skills they need to succeed in school later on.
This article will explore the benefits of preschool for infants and toddlers. Reach out to the caring educators at New Horizons Learning Center to explore our high-quality early learning programs or schedule a tour of our child care center.
Why is Preschool Important for Infants and Toddlers?
Childhood development experts have found that the first five years of a child’s life are critical to their long-term development. During these first five years, children develop and grow more than at any other time of life. Infants and toddlers make crucial connections, learn skills, and develop brain pathways that can prepare them for school later on.
Early childhood education programs focus on supporting a child’s brain development. Learning centers provide a nurturing learning environment. They offer high-quality preschool programs that get children ready for preschool.
Parents may enroll infants in a preschool program that supports developmental milestones. In preschool, infants and toddlers develop social skills, better problem-solving, and other essential qualities that can help them succeed in school.
Around 18 months, children transfer into a toddler preschool program. At this age, educators provide high-quality programs that support a child’s educational, social, and emotional growth.
Enrolling your infant or toddler in preschool will ensure they have the skills needed to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.
What are the Benefits of Preschool for Infants and Toddlers?
Attending an early learning program as a baby or toddler ensures your child will be ready to start kindergarten when the time comes. Early learning programs focus on several aspects of healthy development and school readiness.
Here are just some of the benefits of enrolling infants and toddlers in preschool.
Motor skills
In an infant preschool program, children have access to many activities that support fine and large motor skills. They may explore a carefully designed classroom with safe, age-appropriate toys and furniture. They develop strength by climbing, pushing toys, and playing.
Children also develop fine motor skills by participating in art projects, finger plays, and active songs.
Social skills
Children of all ages benefit from being around peers and caring adults. Infant and toddler preschool programs give children a safe, nurturing environment full of other children and loving adults. Babies and toddlers begin to develop good social skills that will benefit them throughout school–and life.
Brain development
Research shows that children who attend high-quality preschool programs do better in kindergarten and beyond. They are more prepared for kindergarten and have fewer behavioral problems.
Preschool programs don’t just entertain children and keep them safe–they also provide enriching activities that affect their developing brains. Educators use time-tested curriculums to introduce new subjects beginning in the earliest years of a child’s life. This makes a significant difference in their cognitive development and school readiness.
Emotional skills
Children must learn to manage their emotions before they can be successful in school. Being a good student means respecting others, taking turns, and caring about others. Attending a high-quality preschool helps children begin developing these skills during the earliest years of life.
Decreased separation anxiety
Children who do not attend preschool are more likely to have separation anxiety. Separation anxiety can interfere with a child’s learning and make school more difficult in general.
Children who begin practicing separation as infants or toddlers typically have more confidence being away from their parents or caregivers. They may transition more easily into kindergarten later on.
Health and safety
High-quality preschool programs focus on creating the safest environment possible. Educators create safe, enriching environments and stay up-to-date on all safety training. They have specialized education that can help them identify developmental issues. Educators also focus on instilling good health habits, like hand-washing, every day.
Fun
Childhood should be joyful and fun. Infants and toddlers often have lots of energy, curiosity, and excitement about their learning. Enrolling your infant or toddler in preschool ensures they will spend their days engaging in hands-on learning surrounded by friends and caring teachers.
Whether your child is an infant, toddler, or preschool-aged, a high-quality learning program can be beneficial. Deciding to enroll your child in preschool can mean a childhood full of fun, learning, and enrichment that can lead to success in kindergarten and beyond.
Find a Preschool for Infants and Toddlers
Reach out to the caring educators at New Horizons Learning Center now to explore our incredible early learning programs. Call with questions or to schedule a tour. We look forward to meeting you and your child soon!
