As humans, we have a right to an education that begins when we are born. However, new data from UNESCO shows that 1 in 4 children aged 5 has never had pre-primary education. This represents a staggering 35 million out of 137 million 5-year-old children worldwide. Despite research proving the advantages of early childhood education, only half of all countries insure free pre-primary education worldwide. UNESCO’s World Conference on Early Childhood Care and Education, which took place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on 14-16 November 2022, reaffirms every young child’s right to quality care and education and calls for advanced investment in children during the period from birth to eight years. In this blog, we will learn the benefits of early childhood education and why preschool matters.

Why is early childhood education important?

The time from birth to eight years old is one of unparalleled brain development for children and represents a crucial educational opportunity. Children who are healthy, secure, and learning well in their early years can achieve their full developmental prospects as adults and participate effectively in economic, social, and civic life. Providing early childhood education promotes equity and social justice, inclusive economic development, and advancing sustainable development.

The Benefits of Early Childhood Education

Improved Cognitive Development

The first few years of a child’s life are vital for cognitive development. Their brain develops rapidly during this period, and they learn incredibly. Early childhood education helps to stimulate a child’s brain, which leads to improved cognitive development. Children who receive early childhood education are likelier to perform better in school and have higher academic achievements than those who do not. This is because early childhood education provides a strong foundation for future learning.

Better Social and Emotional Development

Children who attend preschool have better social and emotional development. They learn to interact with other children, form friendships, and communicate effectively. They also learn essential life skills such as sharing, taking turns, and following rules. This leads to better socialization and communication skills necessary for success in life.

Improved Health Outcomes

Preschool provides a safe and healthy environment where children can learn and play. Children who attend preschool are likelier to have better health development than those who do not. Children who attend preschool are less likely to suffer from chronic illnesses, such as asthma, and are more likely to receive preventive health care.

Positive Impact on Family Life

Early childhood education has an optimistic impact on family life. Parents who send their children to preschool are more likely to be involved and interested in their child’s education and feel more connected to their community. Preschools often support families, such as parenting workshops and resources, which can lead to better family outcomes.

Enhanced social skills

Early childhood education can also help children develop social skills and emotional intelligence. Children learn to interact with their peers, negotiate, and communicate effectively in preschool. These skills are critical for success in school and later in life.

Why preschool matters

Preschool is an essential component of early childhood education. In preschool, children can develop critical skills and knowledge that will help them succeed in elementary school and beyond. Here are some of the fundamental reasons why preschool matters:

Preparation for elementary school

Preschool can help prepare children for elementary school by introducing them to basic academic concepts and providing them with social and emotional skills essential for classroom success.

Exposure to a structured learning environment

Preschool provides children with exposure to a structured learning environment, which can help them develop good study habits and a love for learning. In preschool, children learn to follow the rules, take turns, and work in groups – skills essential for success in elementary school and beyond.

Opportunities for socialization

Preschool provides children with socialization and peer interaction opportunities, which can help them develop social skills and emotional intelligence. Children learn how to share, negotiate, and communicate effectively by interacting with their peers.

IB Primary School Years Programme

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) is a curriculum framework for children aged 3 to 12. The PYP focuses on the whole child’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development. The PYP emphasizes inquiry-based learning and encourages students to ask questions and explore their world.

In an IB program elementary school, children can participate in a challenging and engaging curriculum designed to promote academic and personal growth.

The PYP is designed to prepare children for the next stage of their educational journey, whether in an IB Middle Years Programme or a different educational program. By providing children with a strong foundation in inquiry-based learning and encouraging them to explore their world, the IB program elementary school helps children develop the critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for success in today’s rapidly changing world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, early childhood education is vital to a child’s overall development. It provides a strong foundation for future learning, boosts cognitive, social, and emotional skills, and sets the stage for academic success. The benefits of early childhood education and IB primary school extends beyond the individual child to their families, communities, and society. Governments, policymakers, educators, parents, and other stakeholders must prioritize early childhood education and invest in quality early childhood education programs that are accessible, affordable, and inclusive. By doing so, we can create a better future for all children and ensure that every child has the prospect of reaching their full potential.