As parents, choosing the right preschool program for your child can seem like an overwhelming decision. With so many options available, it’s hard to know which type of program will best fit your child’s learning style, interests, and developmental needs. At Angelic Treasures Christian Daycare, we understand that every child is unique. Our preschool programs are designed to support children in all areas of development at their individual paces. Here are a few popular preschool program types to consider and what they have to offer your preschooler.
Play-Based Programs
Play is essential for preschoolers’ growth and learning. Play-based programs incorporate open-ended play and exploration into the curriculum through centers focused on creative arts, blocks, dramatic play, science, and more. Through self-directed play, children learn important skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking. Play-based learning allows kids to develop independently in a low-pressure environment. At Angelic Treasures, we take a play-based approach to early education, with plenty of indoor and outdoor free play built into each day.
Academic-Focused Program
Some preschools take a more academically rigorous approach, emphasizing identifying letters, numbers, shapes, and colours and developing early literacy and math skills. Academic programs typically incorporate more teacher-directed large and small-group lessons. These types of programs may be a good fit for children who are advanced in certain skill areas and enjoy structured learning activities. However, too much academic focus too soon can risk stressing out preschoolers and hindering their social-emotional development.
Montessori Program
Montessori education focuses on independent, self-directed learning through the use of hands-on Montessori materials. Children work individually or in small groups on practical life activities to develop important skills like pouring, scooping, and buttoning. They also work on culturally relevant exercises to build numeracy, literacy, science and other knowledge. Montessori classrooms are highly structured, peaceful environments. This type of program may appeal to independent, self-motivated children interested in hands-on learning.
Reggio Emilia Inspired Program
Based on principles similar to Montessori, Reggio Emilia programs view children as strong, capable, and full of potential. Projects and multi-sensory experiences are incorporated based on the individual and collective interests of children. Documentation of the learning process is a key component. Reggio programs encourage open-ended exploration, collaboration and creativity through teacher-supported group work and art-integrated projects. This type of progressive education may be a good fit for kids who enjoy group work and learning through discovery.
Language Immersion Program
For families wanting to raise bilingual children, language immersion preschools provide early education fully or partially in a second language like French, Mandarin, Spanish and more. Some are total immersion with no use of English, while others incorporate the new language for half or most of the day. Studies show kids absorb new languages easily at a young age. Beyond the linguistic benefits, immersion programs help children develop valuable cultural awareness, too.
Christian Preschool
For faith-based families, a Christian preschool like ours at Angelic Treasures incorporates Bible stories, scripture verses, music, and prayer into the daily curriculum. Christian values are modelled and taught through hands-on early learning activities and play. Our Preschool program focuses on developing good character habits and moral foundations alongside academic and developmental milestones. This type of nurturing environment may resonate well with families wanting Godly principles to be part of their child’s early education experience.
Call Us Today!
When choosing a preschool, consider your child’s individual strengths, needs and interests, and family priorities and values. Setting up a tour of potential programs will help you envision the best preschool fit for your little learner. At Angelic Treasures Christian Daycare, we proudly offer a combination of play-based, academic and faith-focused preschool learning through child-centred activities that support growth in all domains for ages 2.5-6 years. Contact us to learn more!