The science of early development has established the first five years of life as the most critical for laying the foundations of lifelong learning, well-being and health. Most children are able to differentiate between themselves and others by the second year.

Early childhood education focuses on children’s development during ages three to five. These early years are crucial. The tools they learn to use during these beginning years will help children excel in school and in life. Promoting and developing the skills that help children succeed in life, and strengthening family attachment are important ways to help children reach their full potential.

What is Early Childhood Education?

At its most basic level, early childhood education (ECE) encompasses all forms of education, formal and informal, provided to young children up to approximately eight years of age. This education is fundamental to the development of the child and can significantly shape the later years.

In essence, parents are the child’s first and most influential teachers. This relationship is especially critical between 0-2 years of age, as the child begins to develop his sense of self, and establish an attachment with his parents. The quality of this attachment formed at this stage of life plays an important role in the child’s future education.

The other aspect of early childhood education is the formal education the child receives at this young age. This stage of education spans years 2 to 8. There can be a variety of formats in which the child receives this formal education. These programs may be designed specifically for children at each individual age, and can be in childcare, day-care, nursery school, pre-school and Kindergarten.

Early childhood education and care is more than just preparation for primary school. It aims at the holistic development of the child to build a solid and broad foundation for lifelong learning and well-being.

There are many benefits to early childhood education.

1. Encourages a lifelong love for learning 

Access to early childhood education inspires a lifelong love for learning. This positive attitude to learning helps the child settle into primary school and drive her academic success.

2.     Socialization

Early learning services help your child learn to get on well with other children and with adults by learning to listen to others and communicate. It makes them independent to take responsibility for others’ needs as well as their own.

3.     Cognitive development 

The basic foundations for developments in thinking, behaving and emotional well-being are set in the first five years. Learning environments in early childhood encourage language and emotional skills as well as the development of creativity and imagination.

4.     Improved attention span 

Children have short attention spans, and this needs to be worked on a daily basis. They are inclined to be interested in new things, and early childhood education plans can help them maximize the opportunities. The discovery of fresh ideas and experiences in new environments amongst new people is an important experience for kids.

5.   Bonding 

If as a parent, you are involved in your child’s education, it presents an opportunity to bond with them and share great experiences together. Children feel loved and looked after, and you get to be in the loop in their day-to-day activities. This is an excellent opportunity to be their first role models, and show them the correct way of life.

6.   Inspiring creativity 

Got a budding artiste, dancer or athlete on your hands? The right early learning can help foster this creative side with confidence. Not only is this vital for emotional development and self-esteem, it’s a lot of fun too!

7.   Builds resilience 

Children learn how to manage challenges and build resilience in times of difficulty, and settle easily at school to reap the benefits of education faster.

Give your child an early start with early learning

Early childhood education is an excellent option if you want to set your child on the path for future success. Beginning with good manners, to the skills they need to be successful, preschool is the perfect place for your little one to begin with.

Early childhood education increases the likelihood of children graduating from high school with fewer behavioural issues, attending college and becoming responsible adults. Be sure not to let your child miss the opportunity to become a well-rounded and successful individual.

Make early learning interactive with Learning Time

Learning Time recognizes the benefits to early childhood education, and we have positioned ourselves to provide these services to your kids to get the best out of them from their early stages of development. We deliver all the benefits of early childhood education, so you don’t have to worry about the educational well-being of your little one. Ask for a free presentation today!