In the past, preschool was defined as an optional educational program for children prior to entering kindergarten. Today, depending on who you are speaking with, there are many practical reasons for sending a child to preschool as well as some for opting out. Most early educators define the parent as the child’s first teacher in terms of modeling and teaching values. Parents also provide in-home and community learning opportunities such as Early Childhood Family Education, Sunday School, libraries, museums and informal gatherings of parents and children. This is a crucial role for parents and one that is not easily replicated outside of a family environment.
At the same time these early educators will also emphasize the importance of a more formal educational experience for children outside of the home. The major reason given for this is that the skills needed for a successful kindergarten experience have increased significantly with each passing year. Some educators go so far as to say that, due to higher academic standards, preschool has replaced kindergarten, which has now become more of a skills-training, stepping stone for a child to do well in the first grade.
Some of the skills that children learn in a quality preschool are experiences with pre-reading, pre-math and pre-science activities. Children also learn to follow directions from someone other than a parent and become able to function in a structured academic setting. It is also crucial that children are able to effectively socialize with other children while learning to share the spotlight of attention with others.
It is an important decision for parents to consider the significance of sending their child to preschool. Farmington’s Wee Tigers Preschool, offered through the Community Education department, is designed for three, four and five year old children. Guided by licensed, professional staff, children have opportunities, through play, to gain school readiness skills through structured, but flexible programming. Learn more about Farmington Wee Tigers Preschool at www.WeeTigers.com. We are now accepting enrollments for fall classes.
