Why Preschool Is The Most Important Step In Your Child’s Education Journey

In some countries around the world, preschool education may not be mandatory, with some parents choosing to skip this step altogether and send their child directly to kindergarten or even primary school. 

But while it may not be compulsory, there’s no denying that it’s an incredibly distinct educational stage that children will greatly benefit from. In fact, several studies show that children who attend preschool are more likely to go to college. 

In Singapore, preschools nationwide offer a structured yet nurturing environment for the children, ensuring parents that their children receive the highest quality early childhood education, which supports their social, emotional, and cognitive development. 

From encouraging creativity to ensuring a seamless transition to formal education, here’s why preschool is the most integral part of your child’s educational journey! 

1. Building a Strong Foundation for Learning

“Start them young”. We’ve all heard that saying before. Through early exposure to numeracy, literacy, and problem-solving skills, preschool programmes lay the foundation for the rest of your child’s educational journey and set them up for success in the years ahead. 

As we all know, the first five years of a child’s development play an important role in shaping the overall trajectory of their lives. This critical period in a child’s brain development is when they are highly influenced by their physical environments and the contexts that surround them. 

This is where preschool education comes in. The role of structured yet play-based learning is crucial in fostering a child’s cognitive development.

2. Developing Social & Emotional Skills

While some parents may argue that they can skip this stage altogether and simply teach their kids at home, it’s important to acknowledge that the preschool environment offers an entirely different experience. 

The years of experience from early childhood educators and merely being in a physical preschool environment alone can provide children with the necessary skills needed for their development that may not be found in a home setting. 

This is where the value of socialising and group interactions comes in. Children need to play and interact with kids their own age as it allows them to build their confidence and social skills. 

It is through these interactions that they learn about teamwork, communication skills, problem solving, conflict resolution, as well as empathy and kindness. 

On top of that, guided play and activities also teach kids about their feelings, regulating their emotions, and building resilience, all of which are essential as they continue to grow. 

3. Encouraging Creativity & Curiosity

Preschool programmes are designed to incorporate exploration-based learning and hands-on activities to spark a child’s curiosity and exploration. 

With various engaging activities such as playing games, nature exploration, art and crafts, music and movement, and storytelling sessions, children can then tap into their creative side. This is especially apparent in preschools with a play-based curriculum that prioritises hands-on exploration and discovery. 

When placed in a stimulating environment that encourages exploration and fuels their creativity, it creates a safe space for the kids to ask open-ended questions and sparks new interests. All of which expand their imagination. 

4. Exposure to a Multicultural Environment 

As we all know, Singapore is known to be a melting pot of cultures, with different nationalities coming together. This unique trait is something unique to Singapore and not that easily found in other countries. 

This multicultural environment can also be seen in the schools across the country, regardless of whether you come from a public, government school or an international one. 

In an environment like this, preschool kids in Singapore will be able to learn about different cultures, traditions, and languages at such a young age. Beyond awareness and understanding of these cultural differences, they will also gain an appreciation, respect, and open-mindedness toward them.

Apart from cultivating a global perspective, growing up in a multicultural environment also prepares children for an increasingly globalised world.

5. Smooth Transition to Formal Education

Last but certainly not least, your little one’s preschool years are crucial in ensuring a seamless transition from their early years to formal education in primary school and beyond. 

There’s no question that there will definitely be a learning curve when a child transitions from preschool to primary school. One of the biggest changes a child may face is the shift from play-based learning to one that is more focused on academics. 

That is why preschool programmes are designed with structured lessons, routines, and activities in order to prepare children for this next stage of their educational journey.

With a solid foundation in learning during their preschool years, students will be better equipped to take on the following years of their formal education with confidence. 

Choosing the right preschool for your child and why it matters 

If you’ve made it this far, you probably already understand how important preschool education is and how beneficial it can be in your child’s educational journey.

Now that you know the benefits, the next step is selecting the preschool that best suits your little one’s needs. 

Here at AIS, we are committed to providing your child with the best preschool experience possible, so that they excel both academically and holistically. 

Want to learn more? Book a tour with us today!