Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Early Childcare Development Gives Children An Important Edge

By John Miller


When it comes to the care of children all reputable experts agree that the formative years, from birth to age 8, are the most important developmental years for every child. It is during this period that vital foundations for future performance are laid. While parents play an important role in this development process, formal programs can also help to develop the cognitive development, motor skills and social adaptability of very young children. With early Childcare education Warren OH parents can give their children a head start in life.

It would be wrong to think that newborn babies do not learn. In fact, they start to develop immediately after birth. At first they only learn the basics about their immediate environment, but very soon they start to react to stimuli. This includes sounds, colours, smells and even touch. It is therefore important that parents provide the infant with a variety of stimuli and a safe, secure environment that will promote development.

During their earlier years most children learn almost primarily through play, even when their play activities are informal. There are countless educational toys on the market, catering for children of all ages. It is not necessary, however, to buy expensive toys in order to provide the child with learning experiences during play. Even a rudimentary internet search will result in numerous creative ideas on how to make play time contribute towards child development.

As children grow older, their games become more complex. At the same time, the rate of their development through playing escalates. Whilst playing, young children learn about social interaction, shapes, colours, the dynamics of team work and communication. Playing also develop their motor skills and they start to develop specific areas of interest. The more advanced their games become, the more advanced their skills become.

Acknowledged experts such as Jean Piaget and John Dewey recommend that children should be exposed to formal development programs from the age 3. Such programs should focus on cognitive development, social and emotional growth, physical development and language skills. Activities and play should therefore focus on these aspects and youngsters must be encouraged to learn through experimenting and interaction. Program leaders should take into account that each child has different abilities and interests.

There have been many empirical studies comparing the achievements of children that had the benefit of form early educational programs and those that did not have that privilege. Children that were enrolled in formal programs consistently achieve better in IQ tests and they generally perform better in maths and science. They also perform better socially and emotionally a d they are more adaptable to a changing environment.

When parents consider enrolling their children in formal development programs they should first conduct some research. The program should make provision for the holistic development of the child and the leaders of the program should be formally qualified and experienced in this field. Parents would benefit from having their children formally assessed before selecting a specific program.

It is only natural that parents want the very best for their children. The greatest gift they can give them is a head start early in life. This can be achieved through formal development programs from a very young age.




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