Academic programs work in a similar fashion to basic developmental milestones. Your child cannot run, until they have learned to walk. They cannot learn to walk, however, until they have learned to crawl. Each step is important in achieving the next step. The academic programs in the U.S. are set up the same way. If your child does not succeed in high school studies, they will struggle in a college setting. If they do not succeed in kindergarten, they will find it difficult to make it through elementary school. The entire process seems to begin at the preschool level. Preschool is an important time to learn necessary and fundamental skills. When looking for a preschool program, keep this in mind and remember these things to look for in a preschool.
Great location
You may be surprised to learn that location is important in things to look for in a preschool program. A great location may mean something different to different parents. However, a preschool location should be nearby. You should have the ability to quickly visit or pick up your child, if needed. The close in proximity that you are to your child?s preschool program, the better involved you will be. You will find it easier to communicate with the preschool program?s instructors and employees. Communication is an extremely important part in your child?s academic success.
Specific academic preschool curriculum
Perhaps one of the most important things to look for in a preschool program is the specific academic preschool curriculum. You want to be sure that your child?s preschool program is teaching them the necessary academic and social skills to successfully move onto kindergarten, and then elementary school. You can always request specific information about a program?s academic program. Pay attention to the skills and lessons that are provided. Compare this to the intended kindergarten program and check that the listed skills match up. The entire point of preschool is to prepare a child for kindergarten. Preprimary programs are groups or classes that are organized to provide educational experienced for children and include kindergarten, preschool, and nursey school programs. From 1990 to 2013, the percentage of 3 to 5 year olds enrolled in preprimary programs increased from 59 to 65%, with all of the growth occurring between 1990 and 2000. These numbers will only increase as parents learn about the benefits of preschool academic preparation.
Available academic preschool activities
If you look at college acceptance rates, you will notice that colleges look for much more than a good GPA. Colleges want to accept students that are well rounded, in many areas. They also tend to look at extra curricular activities and the students specific role in those after school activities. It is important to introduce your child to school activities, as early as possible. Your daycare or preschool program may not have groups or clubs yet, but can introduce young children to different sports and hobbies. Three fourths of young children in the United States participate in a preschool program, with hobbies being an important part of many of these programs.
Specific requirements for preschool
When searching for your child?s preschool program, you may find that some preschool programs have special requirements for admittance. These requirements may be location, age, or skill based. Request information about these specific requirements and compare your child?s abilities against them. If they are lacking in some of the skills required, spend time working with your child on increasing these skills. It will better prepare them for a high quality education. Whatever you do, try not to skip preschool based on this. Approximately 70% of at risk children were found to be more likely to be arrested for committing a violent crime if they did not get a quality preschool education.
Preschool is an extremely important part of your child?s academic success. Preschool programs prepare children for future academic programs, eventually preparing them for college success. There are a few important things to look for in a preschool to ensure that the school will prepare your child. Choose a school with a good curriculum, within a good location, and one with many activity opportunities.
