Preschool: A time when children develop skills for the future

While an outside observer may assume preschool is all fun and games, in reality there's a tremendous amount of learning taking place. Preschool is the time when children are learning the "pre-skills," which lay a foundation for their future success in reading, writing, math and science.

At the same time, preschoolers are becoming more familiar with the daily routines of school, including how to express their opinions and share with others, which will help them transition more successfully to kindergarten. 

Most preschool classrooms are designed to make learning a productive and focused activity. By organizing your classroom by different centers, each with its own theme, children get the opportunity to explore new activities. Some common centers include reading, arts and crafts, a water/sand table, a building and math toys area and a pretend play space. It's important for your classroom to include both structured time and free play, so children have the opportunity to choose their own activities. 

Preschool is a particularly crucial period in children's development, which helps lay the groundwork for their future success in math and literacy. Students are also developing cognitive and social skills that will serve them well as they progress in school and beyond. 

For more information on this subject, refer to our course "Brain Power! Cognitive Development in Preschoolers." ProSolutions Training also offers a CDA course and a CDA Renewal course, both developed to meet the needs of early care and education professionals seeking the CDA Credential. The credential is administered and awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. In 2013, ProSolutions Training became the first online training company to become a formal partner of the Council.