Choosing the right Orlando daycare or preschool for your child is a big decision, and one of the most important factors to consider is the school curriculum. A well-designed curriculum sets the foundation for your child's learning journey, helping them develop critical skills, a love for learning, and the ability to adapt to new experiences. But what makes a good daycare and preschool curriculum?
A Focus on Developmental Preschool Curriculums
A strong
preschool curriculum should cater to all areas of a child’s development—cognitive, emotional, physical, and social. For example, activities like sorting shapes and colors help with cognitive development, while group play fosters social skills. Look for programs that balance these aspects so children can achieve age-appropriate milestones at their own pace.
Ask the school how they assess progress and adapt activities to meet individual needs. This ensures your child’s unique strengths and challenges are taken into account, providing a tailored approach to their growth. Here are 4 practical areas parents should consider when evaluating educational programs:
1. Play-Based Learning Opportunities
Play is an essential part of a good school curriculum, particularly for young children. Play-based learning combines structured activities with free play, giving children the opportunity to explore their interests while building key skills. For example:
- Pretend play can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills.
- Building blocks encourage spatial awareness and fine motor coordination.
- Outdoor play supports physical health and teamwork.
A curriculum that integrates play ensures that learning feels fun and engaging rather than overwhelming, helping children associate education with enjoyment.
2. Emphasis on Early Literacy and Numeracy
Good
daycare and preschool programs introduce children to the building blocks of reading, writing, and math. Look for curriculums that incorporate:
- Storytime sessions to encourage listening and comprehension skills.
- Hands-on activities like counting objects or tracing letters.
- Songs and rhymes to make learning numbers and the alphabet more interactive.
Early exposure to these foundational skills helps prepare children for kindergarten and beyond while nurturing a lifelong love for learning.
3. Hands-On and Interactive Experiences
Children learn best by doing, so the preschool curriculum should include plenty of hands-on activities. Whether it’s science experiments, art projects, or cooking classes, these interactive experiences make concepts more tangible and memorable. For example, planting seeds in a
garden teaches children about nature and responsibility in a way that feels exciting and relatable.
Inquire about how the school integrates hands-on learning into their programs. This type of learning encourages curiosity and keeps children engaged.
4. Exposure to a Variety of Subjects
A well-rounded preschool curriculum includes exposure to subjects beyond basic literacy and numeracy, such as:
- Science and Nature: Experiments and outdoor exploration foster curiosity about the world.
- Art and Music: Creative activities encourage self-expression and fine motor development.
- Early Computer Skills: Introducing children to computers will help them to adapt to computer-based learning and testing.
Diverse subjects ensure that children have a broad foundation of knowledge and interests as they grow.
Consistency with Flexibility
Routines are essential for young children, providing a sense of security and structure. However, a well-rounded curriculum should also allow for flexibility to include new and relevant activities. While a structured schedule fosters stability, incorporating opportunities for children to explore and choose activities encourages creativity and independence.
Blending subjects like math and science with arts and music creates a more dynamic and adaptable learning environment. This balance between consistency and flexibility supports individual preferences and needs, ensuring a more engaging and personalized educational experience.
Explore Kids & Company's Research-Backed Curriculum
When evaluating Orlando daycare and preschool options, the school curriculum is a critical factor to consider. At Kids & Company, we utilize the High-Reach curriculum, a curriculum designed for a creative, integrated, hands-on learning experience for the whole child.
Our programs are tailored to provide children with a positive and enriching early learning experience, helping them build the foundation for future success. We invite you to visit our classrooms, meet our dedicated teachers, and see firsthand how our research-backed approach can benefit your child.