Kiddipedia
Early years education plays a pivotal role in readying children for primary school. In the first seven years of a child’s life their brain lays the foundations for how they question, communicate, and interact with the world around them. This is also the time when children develop the skills and knowledge required to support their future learning journey.
A quality early learning program takes into account how children interact with their environment, not only physically, but with an approach that fosters the development of their social skills, leadership abilities, and emotional resilience. By incorporating playful learning in a nurturing environment, children are supported to cultivate the skills and knowledge required to lay the foundations for a successful transition into prep and beyond.
A quality early years education strives to develop children holistically and prepares them for school in the following areas:
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Social and emotional intelligence:
During early learning years, emotional learning offers children the foundational skills required to regulate emotions, communicate effectively, and build positive relationships – all crucial when starting primary school.
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Literacy and numeracy development:
Children with access to early learning programs rich in phonological awareness and oral language will develop literacy skills to support effective learning in primary school. A program that involves children in the learning process, encourages critical thinking, develops problem solving, and includes skills-based literacy through structured storybook reading will further enhance both language, numeracy and literacy.
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Academic mindset:
Fostering a curiosity and growth mindset is a cornerstone of learning at any stage of life. Early learning programs should prioritise hands-on, play-based learning experiences that stimulate curiosity, critical thinking and encourage children to explore and understand the world and their place in it. Through age-appropriate experiences linked to science, technology, engineering, arts, music, mathematics and literacy, children will develop a robust foundation for future academic performance.
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Physical development:
Developing the body during early childhood is also essential. This includes both gross and fine motor skills including large movements often developed through dance, drama and outdoor play; including running, jumping, and climbing. Mastering fine motor skills also prepares children for their school years. Small movements such as buttoning, zipping clothing, manipulating equipment, drawing and painting, require hand strength and dexterity which are helpful when building writing skills.
Early learning centres play an essential role in preparing children for their upcoming academic journey. Selecting an early learning centre is an important yet personal process, requiring consideration of a child’s needs, family preferences, and educational pathway. Ultimately centres that offer a nurturing, child-led environment with experienced staff and a flexible yet structured framework will ensure children are well prepared for school, ready to embark on the next chapter of their learning adventure.
by Jo Dowling, Director of Early Learning at Strathcona Girls Grammar
