Understanding the 6 Different Pre-School Programs

So your child is a preschooler, and you’re overwhelmed by the number of options available for early childhood education to you? Don’t know which is the best fit for you and your child? Here’s a guide to walk through the 6 types of preschool programs and find the best fit for your child.

Montessori Program

Montessori education is an educational approach developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator, in the early 20th century. Montessori education is designed to foster independence, self-motivation, and a love of learning in children. Montessori education is ideal for children who are naturally curious, independent, and thrive in an environment that encourages self-expression and exploration. The Montessori approach is focused on the child's individual development and growth, with an emphasis on hands-on learning experiences that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

One of the distinctive features of Montessori education is its emphasis on self-directed learning. Children in Montessori classrooms are encouraged to choose their activities and work at their own pace, with guidance from the teacher. This approach helps children develop a sense of responsibility and ownership over their learning, fostering independence and self-confidence.

Reggio Emilia Approach

Reggio Emilia is an innovative educational approach that originated in the city of Reggio Emilia, Italy, in the aftermath of World War II. The approach was developed by parents, educators, and community members who sought to create a new kind of school that would promote creativity, critical thinking, and social engagement.

In Reggio Emilia classrooms, children are encouraged to explore, experiment, and ask questions. Teachers document children's learning experiences through photographs, videos, and written observations, and use these to inform their teaching and guide children's learning. One of the distinctive features of the Reggio Emilia approach is the use of the "atelier," a studio-like space where children can work on creative projects and explore materials. The atelier is designed to promote creativity, experimentation, and collaboration, and is a central part of the Reggio Emilia approach.

Waldorf Style

Waldorf education is an educational approach developed by Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner in the early 20th century. Waldorf education is designed to promote creativity, imagination, and a love of learning in children.

Waldorf classrooms are designed to create a warm, nurturing environment that feels like a home away from home. The curriculum is centered around imaginative play, storytelling, music, and the arts. Children are encouraged to explore and create through hands-on experiences, with an emphasis on natural materials and toys.

One of the distinctive features of Waldorf education is the use of rhythm and routine. The approach emphasizes the importance of establishing a predictable routine that helps children feel secure and know what to expect. The curriculum is also designed to follow a rhythm that reflects the natural cycles of the day, week, and year.

HighScope Approach

HighScope is an educational approach developed by American psychologist David Weikart in the 1960s. HighScope education is designed to promote active learning and encourage children to become confident, independent, and lifelong learners.

One of the distinctive features of High Scope education is the use of the "plan-do-review" process. This process encourages children to plan their activities, carry them out, and reflect on what they have learned. Teachers document each child's progress, using observations to guide their teaching and provide feedback.

BankStreet Education

Bank Street is an educational approach that originated from the Bank Street College of Education in New York City in the 1920s. The approach for early childhood education is focused on promoting child-centered, progressive education that recognizes the importance of social, emotional, and cognitive development in children.

One of the distinctive features of Bank Street education is the use of the "developmental-interaction" approach. This approach recognizes that learning is a social process, and that children learn best through interactions with their peers and with adults. Teachers focus on creating a supportive, inclusive learning environment where children can work together, share ideas, and learn from each other.

Co Ops Program

Cooperative preschools, also known as "CoOps," are a type of preschool that is run by parents who work together to create and maintain the program. CoOps are designed to be affordable, community-based alternatives to traditional preschool programs.

CoOps are best for parents who are interested in being involved in their child's education and who value a strong sense of community. The approach is focused on the whole child's development, including social, emotional, and cognitive growth. In CoOp classrooms, parents take an active role in their child's education, serving as classroom assistants, participating in classroom planning and decision-making, and providing support and guidance as children explore and learn.

Early childhood education builds a foundation for your child’s education down the years, and it is important that you pick a pre-school program that is best suitable for your child’s needs, and one that’ll foster his natural talents. Head on to Raising Superstars to know more about Early Childhood education.