A pre-school, also called nursery school, pre-kindergarten, or day-care school, is a basic learning establishment or nursery school that offers early childhood education for young children before they start formal school. It can be privately or publicly funded, and can often be subsidized from state funds. A pre-school can offer state-approved immunizations and other services for kids before school starts, while parents can attend school or work. Pre-schools often have smaller classes and shorter courses than full-day elementary schools, although they still provide intensive academic programs in core subjects.
As in any educational setting, the goal of pre-schools is to instill childhood skills and habits in children so they will grow up to be independent, responsible citizens when they are older. They develop character-based education programs and extracurricular activities, such as art, music, science, health, and computer skills. The age group for pre-school students can range from birth to age 5. Pre-schools often have a physical address, sometimes referred to as a location or building code, and a website. Common services include childcare, after-school care, and educational programs. Some pre-schools even offer foreign language programs.
In Canada, the most popular pre-school in the provinces is the French immersion Pre-School Service in Strathcona, British Columbia. Here, the children have only been immersed in French for a short time, so they are not familiar with native Canadian customs, language, dialects, and social structures. However, most pre-schools offer intensive Spanish or Chinese programs for their young children. Most of these programs last only a few hours a week, but there are some that extend these programs over several weeks. In the United States, the most popular pre-school program is Daycare Services in New York City, which allows children to go to school without going home.
In the United States, pre-schools are available in both public and private facilities. A public day nursery offers many benefits. They provide large areas for children to explore, including large outdoor spaces for recesses, games, and physical activity. Children also get one on one time with teachers and other pre-school staff, and participate in a wide variety of activities, including arts and crafts, music, art, science, nature, reading, food, and more. Private day nurseries are great for families who have a few children or do not have time to accommodate a large childcare program.
A private day nursery is great for busy parents, as many parents may find it difficult to find quality pre-school or day care in their area. Private day nurseries provide exceptional care, as they often have individual instructors for each child, and use experienced childcare professionals to care for year-olds and toddlers. Many private day nurseries offer personalized after-school programs for families, which allow children to engage in structured activities, while earning extra skills, and strengthening their relationship with their peers. Some private after-school programs include art and craft time, structured literature time, and physical education.
Pre-school education includes both formal classroom instruction and informal playgroups. In the classroom, teachers and educational experts work together to engage children in fun lessons, such as coloring sheets, story times, and even recess. At these sessions, children have fun learning and having fun, and are rewarded when their work is recognized. At playgroups, children work together in a safe setting, socializing with like-minded children, sharing new experiences, and building their confidence. Both these types of experiences serve to develop the valuable life skills that all children need to grow and thrive.
Extended Schools offer a unique opportunity for families with young children. In an extended school setting, parents can work with other families in the same area, which creates an even more supportive environment for your young children. The cost of attending an extended school is typically lower than the cost of sending your child to a public pre-school, as most public pre-schools receive funding from the state. And while pre-school institutions do offer some academic help for your toddler, most offer more family support, as well as a safe and welcoming environment, to help your child with his academic transition.
So if you’re considering sending your child to pre-school, consider the options above. If your budget doesn’t allow for an expensive private academy, look into the many options available at community colleges or day care centers. And don’t forget to check out local nurseries and day care centers, which offer the same benefits of an in-house educational program. Whether you choose an academy, an in-home educational program, or a combination of both, make sure that you are ready to provide your child with the support he needs to make his best start in life!