Preschools provide an ideal learning environment for children to develop and grow. In preschools, a child-centred curriculum is set in place with healthy practices and daily routines to help children feel safe and comfortable. With teachers playing a vital role in developing their love for learning, self-confidence, and readiness for formal education, structured learning activities further allow children to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in school and in life.
Having stimulating and child-friendly classrooms and play areas are also vital to allow freedom of exploration and learning, with outdoor play becoming increasingly popular in recent years. For preschools in Singapore, there are even resources to help educators facilitate outdoor learning for children provided by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA).
Here are a few factors of how preschools provide the best learning environment for children:
Child-Centred Curriculum
Each child is unique and has different learning styles, interests, and abilities. Preschools often offer various child-centred curriculums such as Montessori, Inquiry-based Approach, Reggio Emilia, and more, to facilitate learning at each child’s pace and style. One of the most popular preschool curriculum is The Montessori method, which provides a child-centric learning atmosphere and encourages self-motivation and independent thinking through personalized instruction and hands-on experiences. Another popular preschool curriculum based on inquiry-based learning also teaches children how to ask questions and find answers by themselves, so they can become more independent learners. Overall, preschool curriculums emphasize the importance of self-directed learning, which helps provide the best learning environment for children by encouraging them to explore, express themselves, and take responsibility for their own learning.
Consistent Routines
Establishing a consistent routine is important for children to feel safe and comfortable in their environment and preschool is the best place to learn routines. Preschools usually have a daily schedule that includes meal times, nap times, and playtime, which creates a safe and nurturing environment. This helps children to develop a sense of structure and security and learn how to manage their time and activities. Consistent classroom rules and positive reinforcement, such as reward systems or praise, provide structure and promotes positive behavior in the classroom as well. Regular transitions between activities keep children engaged and motivated, reducing the likelihood of disruptive behavior. By having these routines, alongside teachers who reinforce them, preschools can create a supportive and effective learning environment for young children.
Experienced Teachers
Adults play a critical role in providing children with experiences that promote their growth and development as they learn by observing and interacting with their environment. In a preschool setting, preschool teachers provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment that fosters children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual growth. With specialized training in early childhood education, experienced teachers can ensure that each child’s individual needs are met and help them reach their fullest potential. They also understand the importance of positive reinforcement and use it to encourage children to learn and grow. Hence, having a team of experienced teachers that knows how to engage children in meaningful activities creates a supportive learning environment that helps children learn new skills and develop self-confidence.
Group Learning Activities
Children learn from each other by sharing ideas, experiences, and knowledge. The preschool environment is perfect for encouraging team-based learning as it not only provides child-friendly safe spaces but also qualified teachers to facilitate group learning activities. Most preschool classrooms are designed with areas for small group work, circle time, and play-based learning activities. It also encourages children to participate in collaborative activities such as art projects, storytelling, singing, and playing games, which foster children’s creativity, imagination, and collaboration skills. Group activities also give children the chance to explore different topics with their friends and enhance cognitive development by exposing children to different perspectives and ideas, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills. Overall, preschools encourage a variety of group learning activities and provide a rich and stimulating environment for children to learn and grow, both academically and socially.
Child-Friendly Classrooms
For children to thrive in their environment, it’s important for it to be age-appropriate and engaging. As such, preschools prioritize providing child-friendly spaces to promote the holistic development of their children. Classrooms are often well-equipped with age-appropriate materials such as books, puzzles, and toys that promote various aspects of child development, including cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being. A variety of play areas, both indoors and outdoors, are also important to keep children stimulated and explore what interests them the most.
Conclusion
In short, preschools provide a strong supportive learning environment for children as its curriculum, teachers, activities and learning spaces prepare children for success in school and in life.
A safe and nurturing environment is definitely one of the factors when choosing a childcare centre. At Raffles Kidz Singapore, we believe in developing the whole child through our multi-award-winning bilingual curriculum, experienced teachers, and innovative spaces. Find out more about our various preschools in Singapore and learn how we can provide your child with the best head start. Book a tour today!
