We want to be the change, we want to be different, and we want the children in our room to learn, but also have fun. Preschool is the top priority for Computer Kids. Yes, we have high standards, but we are advocates of play and provide developmentally appropriate methods of teaching.
Our preschool daycare provides a play-based approach to learning. Learning through play is not about children running around a room dumping baskets of toys and singing songs. Instead, learning through play takes a carefully prepared environment that invites young kids to ex p lore, examine, question, test, and manipulate. Through play, learning becomes different for every child, because each child learns at his/her own pace, with his/her own style, and guided by his/her own interests.
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) has included play as a criterion in its accreditation process for programs for young children. And we wholeheartedly stand behind these criteria. Preschoolers need opportunities to play, prepared spaces for them to explore, and responsive teachers to support their learning.
Playing is not all fun, there is the reasoning behind the theory. Children who play at preschool learn and develop in several categories:
- Cognitive skills – math and problem-solving in a pretend grocery store
- Physical abilities – balancing blocks and running on the playground
- New vocabulary – learning Spanish and playing with action figures and baby dolls
- Social skills – playing together in a pretend kitchen
- Literacy skills – creating a menu for a pretend restaurant
We are always amazed at the skills and strengths children learn through play. And our child-centered, teacher-guided curriculum takes advantage of these teachable skills that happen every day. At Computer Kids Preschool, we are always learning, just in a very fun way.
