When looking for a preschool program for your child, you should not compromise on quality. The foundation of schooling you give your child will affect their higher learning studies and influence their career choice. Here are some of the main types of preschool programs.
Montessori
Dr. Maria Montessori developed this Italian-inspired curriculum. With this educational approach, students choose activities that match their interests and learn at their own pace. The Montessori program is meant to promote accountability, independence, and passion for education.
In many Montessori schools, the learning programs begin at preschool up to adolescent education. The classrooms promote a culture of hands-on learning, with materials to explore new passions and skills. Montessori provides what is called the "education for peace" method. This approach promotes constructive conflict resolution, global leadership, and social justice.
Reggio Emilia
Many modern preschool programs have adopted Reggio Emilia's child-led and open-ended philosophy of learning. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of self-expression and community.
Under this program, students are taught through projects, activities, and art that reflect their interests and ideas. The curriculum also insists on cooperative and collaborative classroom activities. Lessons are based on a child's creative, intellectual, and emotional potential.
High Scope
This preschool approach is common in community-based programs like the YMCA. It promotes academic learning by teaching children basic academic skills like counting and telling time.
With the High Scope curriculum, children plan how to complete projects, work to achieve their goals, and review the results. All lessons are centered on the act of play. This form of learning promotes conflict-resolution skills and problem-solving methods by giving children hands-on projects.
Bank Street
The Bank Street preschools place a lot of emphasis on a child's physical, emotional, social, and mental growth. This program encourages children to be active learners. Children acquire skills through experience.
The teacher guides the students based on their learning pace. The Bank Street approach is similar to play-based learning. Students learn through hands-on activities like puzzles, dramatic play, and building blocks.
In Closing
Finding the right preschool program for your child is not an easy feat. Comparing different preschool curricula is the best way to find the right program for your child. Try to determine the pros and cons of each type of preschool program. Also, make sure you factor in your child's strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Choose a school that matches your child's learning style and the values you wish to instill in your child.
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