Importance Of Early Childhood Education

The importance of early childhood education and the purpose of the grade R year

Learning begins from birth. That is why the early years of education (especially Grade R) are the most important years for a child’s future development. Early childhood education helps cognitive, holistic, social and physical development. The purpose of the grade R year is to help a child establish a strong foundation. A child needs to be in a learning environment that teaches them life lessons, morals, values and ideas. We are responsible for exposing children to a stimulating environment in which they can grow and develop their own ideas, beliefs and learn to become responsible. If we do not, they have little chance of succeeding in future education. It is

That means they need to be involved. They learn the most effectively through participation which involves two methods, participation and learning. Participation is a way in which children can be part of the decision making process which makes it more meaningful. Participation allows the child to energetically make sense of the world. Teachers have to allow and encourage children to share their values, ideas and opinions. We have to remember that participation isn’t just taking part it’s the active participation of everybody, the decision making must be mutual. ( Earlyarts,

The physical domain involves the body, fine motor skills movement, health and senses. The cognitive domain involves intellectual task like math’s. The emotional domain involves emotions like joy, fear and anger. The social domain involves people, friends and family. The moral/spiritual domain involves a child’s beliefs and ideas. In other words Holistic development is the development of the whole child.

2. A thematic, culturally responsive and integrated curriculum
We should include storytelling, songs, art and drama and themes in the classroom. We also include child instantiated play opportunities and more structures play guided by the teacher.

3. Language as a tool for learning in s structures and stimulating learning environment
Teachers should allow their student to take part in discussions and better their communication skills. Flash cards can also be used to teach the class new words. There should be lots of time to chat and interact with their peers allowing better communication skills to grow.

4. Learning through play
A classroom has many different play areas like the art area and fantasy area this encourages the child to play together and learn from play. Educational toys help develop a child’s fine and gross motor skills. Skipping ropes and balls help develops a child’s movement and coordination.

5. Child centered