Choosing the "RIGHT" kinda preschool for your children

From an educator's perspective, it is quite tempting to say, as long as the education is good, then go for it!

However, on reflection, pre-school or kindergarten (Children's Garden) should be just that. Children must be allowed to explore the world they live in. Yes, we do have to control some aspects of the envrionment in which they're in, but, generally speaking, kindy should be a memorable experience - one that leaves a lasting impression on children.

I loved going to kindy when I was younger. We had so much fun. Yes, there were times, Aunty Philo, my teacher, got "fierce" but she was a very loving and kind person. She let us play make believe princess, and sing - she would even join us! The boys used to play soldier and make their little guns from plastercine ( yes, yes, im old!! Its Play dough these days!)

I just remember how was fun going to school was. We weren't burdened with learning to read or write.. we did it "work" to fill in the gaps between play times! Goodness, those were the "good" days! Today, I am still studying.. because I enjoy it not because I'm forced to. Work was introduced so gently and so interestingly that I just haven't stopped.

I enjoy every moment of exploration and finding out "new" things and surprise, surprise, I am a teacher too! The most important principles to teaching that I learnt, did not come from the years of training but memories from my own happy and carefree childhood. Doing my PhD doesn't seem like a chore but rather another way of expanding "ME" and a means to show parents of today, the new millennium, that some ole school principles.. cannot be denied.

Why bog a 4 year old with reading and counting when u, as parents or teachers, can read to them or count for them! We know from research findings, that ALL children learn BEST by immitation no matter their ability or diversity, creativity or childishness.. so why the paper chase?

Didn't we all grow up learning indrectly? Most of us over the age of 25 years, cannot deny that the absolute best years of school were those we spent carry "important bags" (filled with breakfast treats) to SCHOOL! Have we achieved less? Have not been contributors to technological, social and scientific advancements in one way or another? Are we not excellent managers and go-getters?

Maybe its time to take one step back... and reflect and renew our perceptions of what education of today should really be.. empathy and kindness aren't qualities we learnt thru textbooks. We learnt them thru "play".

Would love to hear some thoughts....

Happy holiday weekend, folks!