How important is early childhood education? When should your child starts early childhood education? Many educators feel that very young students are falling behind even before they enter the classroom for the very first time. Other teachers argue that parents are teaching their children information and skills that need to be introduced using specific teaching methods. The two conflicting perspectives leave many parents scratching their heads wonder what they should teach at home and what skills educators expect their child to have upon entering the kindergarten classroom.

There is a substantial difference between being classroom-ready and being over-taught. Early childhood education that occurs pre-school age is a precarious subject that requires some research and thought before having your little one hit the books. There are some skills and knowledge early childhood education addresses that are crucial for a small child to have mastered before even entering a school.

When we think of school readiness, we tend to think of academic skills and knowledge. However, early childhood education that is introduced does not always include academic skills. Parents need to focus on the child’s ability to learn rather than the information they are going to learn when they begin an early childhood education program at home.

Teachers are not concerned with what the child already knows. The child is in school to be educated. The skills early childhood education addresses are skills required to assure the child will learn. If the child is unable to sit still for a reasonable period of time, he will be less likely to learn in the classroom. Parents can help their child develop self-control to prepare their child for deskwork and circle time.

Students need to be good listeners. Parents can engage their child in activities that require good listening skills. The activities do not have to be academic in nature. A simple game of Simon Says really helps a preschooler develop good listening and attention skills.

Games are wonderful activities that encourage social skill development that is crucial in the classroom. Any game that involves taking turns helps a child recognize social interaction and self-control. Both of these skills are very important in any early childhood education plan. Games help children develop skills while engaging in an activity that they enjoy.

Teaching your child too much before entering the class can be detrimental in two ways. First, the child may become very bored in the classroom if the information is too familiar. Also, the child may not enjoy the learning process if it is introduced too early and too strictly. As a rule of thumb, stick to games and put the drills away when preparing your child for school. It is very important to remember that children learn through play as you organize an early childhood education program. Engage the child in activities that are fun and interesting for him/her.