Early childhood education is the foundation of learning in the first part of a child’s life. From birth through age 5, children are developing important skills that they will need for the rest of their lives. Exposing your children to many different meaningful experiences will broaden their knowledge, improve early childhood education, and promote awareness and appreciation that can’t be taught from a textbook.
Play
Learning through playing, in my opinion, is always the best approach in early childhood education. Children should not be forced into learning when they are not ready. Letting children explore the world, discover new interests, and learn at their own pace will always lead to a more positive outcome. However, it is still important to encourage and guide their choices.
Stacking blocks is an opportunity to learn about colors, numbers, geometry, shapes and balance. Baking teaches basic math and nutrition. Being outside supports even the youngest children’s gross motor development and sensory experiences. Everyday play provides valuable opportunities for young children that can stimulate thinking and problem solving in unique ways.
Let Their Confidence Shine
Children tend to argue when given chores however completing age appropriate tasks can be very rewarding and quite the confidence the booster. Being part of the household, means taking responsibility – a valuable characteristic for everyone to know.
My two-year-old daughter loves helping me around the house! Let your child make a valuable contribution to the household by letting him or her feed the dog, set the table, help with laundry, or even completing simple tasks such as getting dressed! You may consider using a chore chart to give the child options and to keep a tally of what you have already completed. The chore chart visibly shows their accomplishments and is a great self-esteem booster.
Technology
In today’s world, technology is everywhere and in everything and, if used wisely, can work to your advantage. I believe with proper monitoring, kids can easily access valuable information. We have an iPad, and while my daughter does play games and watch Netflix, the majority of her games are educational. There are tons of marvelous games that teach memory skills and animal sounds.
There is a great app called Letter Quiz which has four fun and simple games including ABC flashcards and alphabet tracing. The demo version is free to try and the full version is only $1.99.
Reading
Libraries are valuable resource and can be quite a fun experience as well! My daughter loves books! She’s like a kid in the candy store, BUT with books! Plus it’s a free fun activity and air-conditioned! Can’t beat that!
We all know reading to your baby is one of the best ways to help her learn. Reading promotes communication skills, builds vocabulary and enhances memory, listening and attention skills. When reading aloud to the children, encourage them to predict what will happen in the story, to comment on the story, and to make connections between the story and their personal experiences.
Positive Attitude – set a good example
Kids learn by watching others, especially parents. Talk with your child about the importance of going to school. Make sure your child understands that education is key to a good career. Let your child know what you expect from them and the consequences of not having an education. The attitude you have towards their teachers and school (and life in general) will reflect upon your children.
As a member of Clever Girls Collective, I was selected to participate in the Healthy Habits program sponsored by Kimberly-Clark and Colgate-Palmolive. The content and opinions expressed here are all my own. #healthyhabits #cgc
Good read, appealing for a person that understands so
little on the topic like me!