Preschool programmes are a great way to encourage learning and development in children from an early age. The learning methods and curricula used in preschools are unique to the needs of the preschoolers and have proven to be effective over the years. Preschools in Singapore have mastered the craft of teaching and learning to improve children’s understanding of themselves and help them interact better. The various types of preschools focus on specific learning methods that nurture different aspects of children differently. As a parent, it is important to be aware of these differences as it will influence your choice of preschool. Additionally, parents have to work with teachers to understand the learning methods and help their kids improve even at home. Preschools in Singapore can be public, private, or run by a mission like the Catholic Church. Some preschools focus on one form of learning while others use a combined approach. They modify aspects of multiple methods of learning to create a balance in the children.
This article discusses the types of preschools in Singapore.
1. Relationship-based preschool
Relationship-based preschools build children by helping them understand and develop unique relationships with other kids, their environment, and with adults. This type of learning focuses on the child’s interests and is based on the principles of Reggio Emilia. Preschools that use this method of learning in Singapore teach children the difference between appropriate and inappropriate ways to express their feelings, thoughts, and ideas.
The goal is to develop interpersonal skills that will enable parents to better understand their children and help children communicate their emotions the right way to adults.
2. Whole-brain learning
Preschools that use whole brain learning are focused on a holistic approach to learning. They emphasize that the child’s emotional needs are just as important as developmental and educational needs. These preschools have shown to produce amazing results because children learn to connect with their inner selves and approach life with more purpose of what they truly want. An example of such a preschool is Little Shepherds Schoolhouse which is under the leadership of the Catholic Church. The teachers are attentive, empathic, and instill such values in kids to make them better people. Whole-brain learning encourages children to interact with their environment and other people in a kind and compassionate manner. It teaches them to have respect for all people and sets them apart from their peers in a positive way.
3. Spontaneous learning
Spontaneous or voluntary learning is another key form of learning in some preschools in Singapore. This isan upgraded version of the Montessori program and is perfect for children with varying needs and personalities. It is based on the principle of encouraging children to do things unprompted without the influence of external factors such as teachers. It is a highly successful preschool approach because the teacher serves as a guide to help children correct bad habits and promote free play. It is a fun way of learning in an environment that is optimized to promote growth and development.
4. Art-based learning
Art-based learning is common in preschools that promote creativity and self-development through the arts. Teachers guide the children using a program that stimulates their brains, encouraging them to let their creative juices flow to make maximum use of their imagination. The best part about art-based learning is that it is fun and engaging.
5. Multi-discipline based learning
The multi-discipline approach is a combination of other learning approaches. Preschoolers are exposed to the outdoor environment which helps them better understand nature and how to relate to the environment. This form of learning develops reflexes and rhythm, interpersonal and intrapersonal development, mathematical, linguistic, spatial, and logical learning. It also promotes the development of control and motor skills. It also lets children understand the tones, rhythms, and sounds of diverse types of music at various stages. Parents of children in such preschools have to be aware that their child’s development is not based on a specific learning method.
6. Sensorial learning
Preschools using this method of learning have a curriculum based on the ideas and methods of Waldorf Stainer. They encourage independence, imagination, and self-motivation which leads to creativity. Children are encouraged to be more self-sufficient and devise ways to make themselves happy and more productive. The teacher’s role is to encourage preschoolers to do all of these instead of staying glued to laptops, televisions, or tablets all day long. Sending your child to such a preschool means you are aware of this teaching style and will encourage your child to be creative at home. It will help them make maximum use of their senses.
7. Play-based learning
Play is a key part of a preschooler’s learning. It helps children who are below kindergarten age interact better with themselves, their environment, and with those around them. A curriculum focused on play-based learning follows the teachings of Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky, which places emphasis on encouraging children to interact more with the environment. This interaction enables them to learn better. Teachers following this program typically observe and make adjustments to children’s activity to improve their level of interaction. It helps them develop better and encourages them to love learning.
8. Interactive learning preschools
These preschools promote independence and team spirit. They train preschoolers to work on their own and to excel when put in a team with other children. This is an excellent learning method that builds a child’s confidence and improves their communication skills. Teachers set the learning program after planning the itinerary with preschoolers. Teachers encourage interactive learning and sometimes put children into separate groups and later call them together. This way, children learn better because they talk about what they discussed in their fixed groups.
Bottomline
The different types of preschools in Singapore have different approaches to childcare. While some focus on independence, others teach kids to interact more actively with society. However, the underlying purpose of all approaches is to instill, from a young age, the right information in preschoolers. They teach soft skills such as communication, team building, and problem-solving. Find a preschool that meets your requirements and go for it.
