Early Care and Education begins from the womb and goes until age eight. The is a very important time of a persons development. Access and Opportunity play a significant role in the experiences a child has during this essential time period. This quick blog will help you answer the question “Why should I focus on the foundation?”
Investing is Early Care and Education is so valuable. Many are so focused on Kindergarten, however there is so much time prior to Kindergarten. We will share with you some benefits of Early Care and Education.
Lifelong Success
Research suggests that children who engage in quality early education programs have transformational lifetime benefits beyond their educational outcomes. We believe this is based on the seeds planted during the critical time period before age 8. Affirmed children are more likely to graduate from high school, pursue higher education, and have a successful career. Many focus on school readiness, however we see it as life long success due to equitable access and opportunities to culturally responsive experiences.
Enhanced Socialization
Life skills such as sharing, listening, taking turns, and other executive functioning skills are necessary for human existence in such a diverse society. Social and emotional development is a buzz word, however it is a serious matter! Children learn to interact with their peers and develop essential social skills through early education. They build a sense of belonging for one another in a holistic culturally responsive way of exploration. They also learn how to express and regulate emotions, build relationships, and develop empathy and compassion. Embracing cultural responsiveness enhances society in a beautiful way.
Self Care Development
Creativity, Cognitive Development, and Confidence come to mind. self care tool kits are built during these early years. Children learn calm down techniques and tools as well as discover their creative strengths that might help them navigate challenges in school and beyond.
Creativity and Imagination: Preschool programming often incorporate STEAM opportunities such as, art, music, and imaginative play, fostering creativity and imagination in young children. This allows them to explore various forms of expression and develop and discover their own unique gifts and talents.
Cognitive development: Early education helps stimulate brain development during the critical early years. It promotes cognitive skills such as reasoning, problem-solving, critical thinking, and language development. Providing children with vocabulary helps them express themselves.
Confidence and Independence: By actively participating in various activities, children gain confidence in their abilities and develop a sense of independence. This prepares them to take on challenges and adapt to new situations. Self affirming individuals exude confidence.
Better Together
It is important to note that the quality of early care and education significantly impacts the benefits gained. High-quality access and opportunity begins with investing in early care and education with a systems level change as well as family engagement. Yes we need programs with well-trained teachers, appropriate curriculum, and a nurturing environment as well as support for families so that they can spend time and THRIVE as guardians and not just survive. Overall, early education plays a vital role in a child’s holistic development and has long-term benefits that extend beyond the preschool years.
At TLC Consulting, we understand that quality early care and learning experiences is an investment we must highlight and achieve. This takes everyone from elected officials, pediatricians, early care and education champions to children. This is commUNITY investment.
Let’s make a commitment to focus on the foundation! Contact us today for more information!
