Effectiveness of schooling in the early childhood phase
By: Julia Aidan
Submitted: 2009-02-19 05:47:58 | Word Count: 441
Are you eager to jumpstart your child’s early schooling? You are right to assume that at an early age your child can start learning. His or her mind is ready to soak up new experiences and information. Since children are impressionistic, the right educational method and learning environment should be selected in order to maximize the effectiveness of schooling in the early childhood phase.
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Evidence shows the importance of education during the early phase of childhood is unquestionable. It is through education that a child can achieve his whole potential and be whatever he/she desires to become. Early childhood is the right time to spur him along.
The effectiveness of schooling in the early childhood phase is also unquestionable, especially as it relates to the child’s personal development. However, it is correct to question the effectiveness of early educational programs or tools used, and how it suits the child’s learning style. Does your child learn faster by doing? Listening? Or observing?
Researchers on the issue have established that not all educational tools for early education are equally effective in the advancement of development and learning of young children. It is safe to say that the effectiveness of schooling in the early childhood phase is greatly dependent upon the following: Environment, quality staff, appropriate curriculum & teaching tools, appropriate grouping practices, parental involvement, and enforcement of consistent schedules.
Key Areas to Consider
Studies show that long term benefits of early childhood education are only evident in high-quality programs. Thus, you have to look into certain areas such as trained teaching staff, the style of administrative leadership, curriculum, ratio of class to teacher, competency of teaching assistants, and rapport between parents and teachers.
As a parent, play it by ear. Talk to the teachers and get the feel of the school and find out if the learning environment involves the children in meaningful and active learning. Find out if their program is developmentally appropriate for different age groups and different learning styles and temperament. Talk to parents of young children already enrolled to find out what opinions they have on the effectiveness of the schooling provided for their child.
If you receive the answers you need to hear, then you may have found a school that can effectively teach your child in the early childhood development phase. In many cases, early childhood learning in a classroom setting will prepare your child for the future, both emotionally and academically.
