Vital Early Years
Learning does not begin when a child walks through the classroom door. Learning begins at home. In fact, some experts believe a child's intellectual development is as great from birth to age four as it is from four to eighteen. This means that by age four, half of a child's intelligence has already been formed.
The early years, then, are vitally important in a young child's development. During those years, the young child is learning to learn. By the time your child enters school, at least five years of education have taken place – with you as the first and most important teacher and your home as the important school. With your help, your child has begun to explore the ideas, the objects and the experiences of the world.
Experts recognize the importance of children's early learning experiences. The know that a parent's lively interest and interaction stimulate a young child's mind – and influence, in turn, a lifetime of learning ability. In other words, they recognize that the things you do with your child now – before school begins – can help your child to later success in school.
It's important, then that you know how to help stimulate your child's mind. It is important for you to know what kinds of skills and knowledge you can provide to prepare your child for learning in the years to come. And it's important for you to know how to turn everyday interactions into learning adventures that your child will enjoy.
These are important responsibilities, but they need not overwhelm you. There are many enjoyable things you can do that will truly make a difference – with a little bit of planning that will help you make learning an important and exciting part of your child's every day life.
...for more details attend our Parents Workshop
