Maria Alvarez
What Is So Important About Early Childhood Education? Many people have reservations about the importance of pre-kindergarten education. This was clearly manifest in 2006 when the California legislature unsuccessfully attempted to pass a law that would make pre-school education mandatory for all children. Many Californians did not agree with the importance of using tax payer funds to fund mandatory pre-school programs, including parents desiring to educate their children themselves. Research has shown that children enrolled in Head Start programs benefit by receiving formal education before kindergarten. According to some studies, children enrolled in these programs are more behaved and have higher IQ scores upon enrolling kindergarten than their peers without formal education. Likewise, it was shown that children enrolled in Head Start programs learned quicker than children not enrolled in these programs. Critics of pre-kindergarten education claim the differences between children enrolled in pre-school programs and children not receiving formal education are only discernible during kindergarten, first, and second grade. During subsequent years, children who've not received formal education prior to kindergarten test at the same level and behave like their peers with pre-kindergarten formal education. Therefore, Head Start children may be at an advantage for a couple of years, but after that, their classmates perform at similar levels. Another major problem with Head Start programs is that children qualifying for these programs usually come from families living below poverty-line, so these programs are not readily available for children from all backgrounds. However, children can receive formal education in other ways other than Head Start programs, including daycare and parents teaching their young children. Even though children in daycare programs can develop intellectually, children benefit most when parents stay at home with their children and educate them. Most childhood education specialists claim that young children learn best when they're not pushed too hard, they have an opportunity to interact with their peers, and their parents and instructors treat them kindly. Likewise, children learn best when instruction and educational activities are only a small portion of their days. This is especially true of children enrolled in pre-school programs since it's not good for young children to be separated from their parents for extended periods of time. Children usually do not benefit in programs with inexperienced teachers and large classroom sizes. Children taught at an early age usually benefit in the following ways: improved social skills, less or no need for special education instruction during subsequent school years, better grades, and enhanced attention spans. Likewise, some researchers have concluded that young children enrolled in pre-school programs usually graduate from high school, attend college, have fewer behavioral problems, and do not become involved with crime in their adolescent and young adult years. The research detailing these benefits was completed during the 80's. In addition to benefiting children experiencing normal development, it was also shown that children with learning or other physical disabilities benefit immensely from pre-kindergarten education. Also, children with parents highly involved in their pre-kindergarten education do not experience the same positive results from Head Start programs as children coming from homes where it's not as much an emphasis. Children taught how to speak a second language during their early developmental years are also in a better position to learn English at a young age. Many people do not feel the government should determine whether children should be required to receive
Maria Alvarez formal pre-kindergarten education. One reason for this is children who are educated by their parents during their early developmental years’ experience the same benefits as children enrolled in pre-school programs, especially children receiving a lot of attention from parents. Parents deciding to educate their young children themselves should utilize creative ideas and activities when educating them. No matter the differences in opinion about formal pre-kindergarten education, children benefit from receiving some type of education during their early developmental years. However, there is not one-size fits all instruction best suited for all children. While some children benefit immensely from pre-school, it may not be the best educational setting for other children. In most cases, children benefit most by receiving educational instruction from their parents. Parents must evaluate a child's unique personality before determining which program is best suited for a child since not all programs benefit children the same way
Early childhood educators have one of the most rewarding and difficult jobs. They are in charge of preparing young minds for the challenges and opportunities discovered as they embark on their educational careers. There are many articles written about early childhood education. These articles can be excellent resources for educators and parents to help maximize the benefits for young students. Here are five of our favorite articles for those interested early childhood education:
What’s the big deal? There is a surprising amount of debate surrounding the topic of early childhood education. Many people question how much formal learning is necessary or beneficial for very young children. Various studies have shown, however, that some form of education, whether it is in a formal school setting or an informal setting in the home, greatly benefits children by the time they reach traditional school ages. Children are better equipped to learn, better behaved, and overall more prepared. This article, published on the Education Corner site, explores the research and pros and cons of educating the youngest of students.
Once upon a time…” It’s important to understand the history of early childhood educational theories and practices. Although this article is relatively simplistic, it gives an overview and introduction to the history and paths that early childhood education has taken. It explores the effects of Head Start programs, the social norms about parenting, and the changing ideas about education for young children. The author, Dr. David Elkin, explores how early childhood education began
Maria Alvarez
centered around the child and based in philosophy, but has since become seen as a step on a fast-paced educational ladder.
The sooner the better Studies show that high-quality education early in a child’s life leads to continued success later in school, at work, and lead to better well-rounded emotionally and socially. This article also points out that spending resources toward education earlier in life is much more fiscally responsible than paying later to help a struggling child catch up. The authors mention several successful studies conducted about the advantages and disadvantages of early childhood education. Finally, it also includes a few nationwide organizations that commit to making highquality childhood education accessible for all families, regardless of their situations.
Theories and influences It can be helpful for those who have experience with early childhood education to understand the prevailing theories behind it. There have been many influential psychologists and educators who have contributed to the ideas behind many current techniques. Understanding these theories can help educators and parents know what to expect from children at different stages of development. This can help prevent unrealistic expectations and equip educators to know when their students are able to be challenged more and taken to the next level academically, socially and physically.
Dispel first day jitters When young children begin school, it can be stressful for parents, students and teachers. Students can be anxious, especially if they are new to attending school. Teachers are faced each year with a classroom full of nervous faces. Parents have to worry about leaving their children behind, and often feel a bit of anxiety themselves. This article helps all three groups learn ways to relax and handle the transition smoothly. When parents and children feel prepared for school, children tend to be able to adjust better, making the teacher’s job easier as well.
Maria Alvarez
It takes a village Preschool and kindergarten are important beginnings to the academic careers of children. Parents and teachers involved during this step are influential in helping kids master the material, and to relax and enjoy learning. To help children get the most out of their schooling, it’s important to understand the significance of the history and theories of early childhood education, and the prominent practices and studies dedicated to get children ready to learn. These early child education articles will help parents and educators prepare for one of the most important phases of a student’s life.