How to choose the right pre-school:

Research conducted on more than 3,000 children showed that a higher quality education at pre-school level resulted in positive effects in development well into upper primary school, according to the founder of Thinkers.inq, Rod Soper.

“There are a noticeable difference in outcomes on a child’s intellectual and social/behavioural development from a high quality early education,” says Mr Soper.

“Choosing the right type of early learning environment can make a significant difference in how your child progresses,” he says.

“Parents can adequately prepare their pre-school aged children to ease them into their next life-stage step, into mainstream school and the years beyond.”

“The aim with early childhood education is to help educate a nation of bright young minds who can go forward into the world with confidence,” says Mr Soper. “The aim is to give every child the very best start by equipping them with skills for life.”

Mr Soper suggests a number of areas that parents can look out for when considering a pre-school for their child.  

1.  Check the educational qualifications of staff

Research shows that employees with higher qualifications have higher quality outcomes and children under their care can make stronger progress. 

2.  Is the teacher-to-child ratio adequate?

Having the right number of early childhood, degree-qualified teachers to the number of children can ensure each child receives the attention and support they need to develop their personal best. 

3.  Is social development considered equal to educational development?

It’s been shown that where both social and educational development are considered complementary and equal in importance, children can make all-round progress.

4.  Does the environment encourage ‘sustained shared thinking?’

The use of open-ended questions and adopting ‘play with purpose’ encourages independent thinking and curiosity - both vital skills for lifelong learning.

5.  Are parents encouraged to be actively involved?

Early learning centres that actively involve parents and encourage shared outcomes and goals, while providing individual feedback, can greatly enhance a positive outcome for a child.

* * *

To find out more about the approach to early childhood education and care being advocated by Mr Soper, visit Thinkers.inq