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In this Part 1 of a 3-Part Article Series titled In Search of Schools Near Me, we explore the basics of early childhood schools and provide insights into what to look for when making this very important decision. As you embark on the journey of selecting a school for your child, the formative years, particularly in Nursery, Pre-K, and Kindergarten, play a crucial role in shaping a child’s academic, social, and emotional foundation. Choosing the right school for these early years is akin to selecting the perfect launchpad for a lifelong learning adventure. We hope this article and the rest of the article series is beneficial in some ways to help you make the best schooling decision for your child.  

Overview of Early Childhood School Programs:

Nursery Schools:

• • Most nursery schools nearby typically cater to children aged two to three years old. A child must be 3 years old by October 30th of the entering academic year to enroll in nursery school in the Philippines. These schools focus on fostering socialization and basic language skills. They introduce essential concepts in Literacy, including sound discrimination and identification, as well as basic mathematical principles such as shapes, colours, patterns, balance, symmetry, and basic numerals. This is achieved through engaging play-based activities, thematic approaches, and collaborative learning methods.
  • The nurturing environment of a nursery school lays the groundwork for a child’s transition from home to a more structured educational setting. Nursery Schools are typically part-time running 1-2 hours a day. 

Pre-K (Preschool, Pre Kinder) Programs:

• • Pre-K programs often referred to as Reception, Pre K, Preschool, or Pre-Kindergarten are designed for children aged four to five years old, preparing them for the formal education that follows. In the Philippines, children must be 4 years old by October 30th of the entering academic year to enroll in Pre Kinder. These programs often emphasize early Literacy, Numeracy, Science, Communication and Language and Social Skills development. Pre Kindergarten acts as a bridge between the informal learning environment of the home and the more structured setting of Kindergarten.

Kindergarten:

• • Kindergarten marks the beginning of formal schooling for many children, usually around the age of five. More specifically, DepEd requires a child to be 5 years old by October 30th of the entering academic year to enroll in kindergarten. In addition to further developing higher academic skills, kindergarten places a strong emphasis on socialization, engaging in the visual and performing arts,  emotional growth, and the cultivation of essential classroom habits. It serves as a critical stepping stone for the educational journey that lies ahead.

What to Look for When Selecting a School:

Educational Approach:

• • Consider the school’s educational philosophy and approach. Some schools may follow play-based methodologies such as the Montessori, Danish Forest or the Reggio Emilia while others could adopt more structured approaches like the International Baccalaureate or a combination of both play-based and structured such as the British teaching approach. Choose a philosophy that aligns with your child’s learning style and your educational values.

Teacher Qualifications and Engagement:

• • The quality of teachers is paramount. Look for schools where teachers are not just educators but also enthusiastic facilitators of learning. Engaged and caring teachers can create a positive and stimulating environment, nurturing a love for learning in young minds.

Curriculum and Learning Resources:

• • Assess the curriculum offered and the learning resources available. A well-rounded curriculum that addresses cognitive, social, and emotional development is essential. Ensure that the school provides a variety of age-appropriate materials and activities that cater to different learning styles.

Classroom Environment:

• • Take a peek into the classroom environments. They should be welcoming, organised, and filled with age-appropriate materials. A colourful and interactive setting can greatly contribute to a child’s engagement and overall learning experience.

Parental Involvement and Communication:

• • Look for schools that encourage parental involvement and maintain open lines of communication. Regular updates, parent-teacher conferences, and opportunities to participate in school activities contribute to a collaborative educational journey.

Safety and Facilities:

• • Safety is a top priority. Ensure that the school has secure facilities, well-maintained play areas, and appropriate safety measures in place. A safe and hygienic environment is crucial for the well-being of young learners.

Class Size and Student-Teacher Ratio:

• • Smaller class sizes and favourable student-teacher ratios allow for more individualized attention. This is particularly important in the early years, as it fosters stronger connections between teachers and students, promoting personalized learning experiences.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right early childhood school is a very important decision that sets the tone for your child’s educational journey. Understanding the basics of Nursery, Pre-K, and Kindergarten education, along with considering key factors like educational philosophy, teacher engagement, curriculum, and safety, empowers parents to make informed choices. By choosing a school that aligns with the unique needs and values of you as a parent and your family, you can provide your child with a solid foundation for a lifetime of learning and growth. As parents and educators, let’s embark on this exciting adventure together, ensuring that our little learners blossom into confident, curious, and compassionate individuals.

This In Search of Schools Near Me article series was brought to you by Wesley Primrose Academy of Cebu, Philippines. Be sure to check out the other articles in the series in which we discuss the most common types of Early Childhood Teaching Approaches (Part 2) and in Part 3, we explain the benefits of Play Based Learning. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions about this article or if we could be of any help in guiding your decision to choose a school.