5 Things Children Should Really Learn in Preschool

Have you ever noticed how there are certain necessary things that preschool doesn't teach us? Even today, many of us face emotional or social problems because of these gaps in early education. In this article, we'll discuss five crucial skills that children should be taught from a young age to help them navigate life more effectively.

• Social and Emotional Development
  ‍In preschool, children should embark on their journey of social and emotional development. It's here that they start to grasp the importance of playing nicely with others, understanding their own emotions, and communicating their feelings in a positive way. By fostering empathy, kindness, and effective communication in preschool, children are better equipped to create inclusive and supportive environments where everyone feels valued and respected.
• Language and Communication Skills
  Language and communication skills are essential for effective communication and future academic success. Preschool offers numerous opportunities for children to develop their language skills through engaging activities such as circle time discussions, storytelling, and singing nursery rhymes. These activities help children expand their vocabulary, improve their sentence construction, and understand the meaning of words. Additionally, they learn to follow instructions, express their thoughts and ideas, and actively participate in group discussions.
• Cognitive Development
  Preschool is a critical period for cognitive development, where children learn to think, reason, and problem-solve. Through hands-on activities and play-based learning, children develop essential cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and concentration. They engage in activities that stimulate their curiosity and foster a love for learning. They are also exposed to early mathematical concepts such as counting, sorting, and classifying. Exploring shapes, sizes, and patterns, laying the groundwork for future mathematical understanding, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Fine and Gross Motor Skills
  Within the preschool setting, children are presented with numerous opportunities to cultivate both fine and gross motor skills. Fine motor skills involve the coordination of small muscles, such as those in the hands and fingers, and are crucial for tasks like writing, drawing, and self-care activities. They also engage in art activities like painting, cutting, and pasting, which help refine their fine motor skills. Gross motor skills, on the other hand, involve the coordination of larger muscle groups and are essential for activities like running, jumping, and balancing. These activities not only promote physical development but also improve overall coordination and body awareness.
• Independence and Self-Help Skills
  ‍Preschool is an ideal time for children to begin developing independence and self-help skills. They learn how to take care of their basic needs, such as dressing themselves, using the bathroom independently, and tidying up after activities. These skills foster a sense of responsibility and self-sufficiency, enabling children to become more confident and self-reliant. These experiences help build resilience and promote a sense of autonomy, setting the stage for future success in school and beyond.

The Benefits of Montessori and Daycare

While traditional preschools have their merits, Montessori and daycare approaches offer unique advantages. They emphasize hands-on exploration, personalized learning, and child-led discovery, nurturing the whole child: social, emotional,physical and cognitive growth.

Montessori schools, for example, cultivate independence, respect for individual learning styles, and freedom within limits. Children engage in self-directed activities in a prepared environment, learning at their own pace. This fosters adaptability, creativity, and acceptance of diversity, instilling a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

At Applebee Montessori Academy, we embody these principles. We create a thriving environment with engaging activities, child-centered learning, and highly trained educators. Recognizing the importance of life skills beyond academics, we equip children with independence, empathy, and problem-solving abilities. Coupled with a love for learning, these qualities create a solid foundation for future success.

Join us today to invest in your child’s future today and witness the transformative power of quality preschool education at Applebee Montessori Academy.