5 Benefits of Pre-K Programs
The Benefits of Tutoring for Your Young Child /
Why Young Children Should Have a Tutor /
Why You Should Consider Getting a Tutor for Your Young Child
Learning starts at home. Studies have shown that the family unit is where a child learns most of what he carries to adulthood – including values such as respect, academic learning, and worldviews. This is because the brain is built through the course of time, from zero to hero. It’s science!
As a parent of a young child, it is your responsibility to do everything in your power to ensure that your child is equipped with the weapons and armor he needs to succeed in life. You probably have the values and worldviews covered. But what about the academic aspect?
You might not have the time and resources to spend on your child’s early education yourself. There is work – on top of all the responsibilities associated with raising children.
This is where Pre-K programs and other early education programs slot in.
What are Pre-K Programs?
Kindergarten is usually the first step in the educational system, with students normally at age 5. In 1965, President Johnson initiated the Head Start program, which was a half-day event for children of underprivileged families. While it still exists today, the programs and their offerings vary widely depending on the state.
The good news is that private institutions offering Pre-K programs are prevalent. These programs employ learning and teaching practices specifically developed for children as young as 1 to around age 4 or 5.
Benefits of Pre-K Programs
But why should you invest in a Pre-K program? You’re already facing a life’s worth of education expenses, why add to the cost?
Can you really put a price on education, though?
Cost aside, it really is worth looking into the benefits of Pre-K programs or early childhood education in general. Here are some reasons if you need convincing.
1. Children get a head start in develop literacy and numeracy skills
Let’s go into the juicy details for those of you who like numbers. Research has shown that children who go to childcare for at least three years do much better in their year 4 literacy and numeracy tests.
Here’s something even better: Compared to six years of primary school, 18 months of preschool have a stronger, positive effect on literacy and numeracy skills at age 11! (Okay, this was an Australian study, but it is no less true!)
Aside from a Pre-K institution, you can give your child additional support by engaging the services of a Math tutor. After all, numeracy skills rank high in the list of desirables.
If you want your child to do well academically, give him a head start.
2. Socialization
It’s not all about academics, though. When your child attends Pre-K programs, they are exposed to a world outside of the home. They get to interact with other people – teachers and classmates. They learn how to socialize with individuals other than their parents and siblings. Furthermore, they are exposed to diversity, which is key to developing into a well-rounded adult.
3. Build good habits
Socialization has its own benefits. Children who are exposed to a structured learning environment – as relaxed as it may be in Pre-K – develop good habits and values.
They learn to respect their elders, authority figures, and their peers. They are taught the value of teamwork. They learn how to focus and concentrate on tasks. These habits, which they will carry with them through their lives, will help them navigate the meandering river called life.
4. Set them up for success
As we established earlier, children learn more during their early years; and what they learn will set them down their path to adulthood. Beyond literacy and numeracy skills, a person needs life skills to succeed.
Arguably, success is a relative concept. It is measured using different metrics depending on the person.
To support this point, however, let’s look at the findings of a 25-year study on the effects of early childhood education. The study looked at more than 1,000 children in inner-city Chicago. Its findings? Children who received preschool education and follow-up services:
- Attained more (higher) education
- Belonged to higher income brackets
- Were more likely to have health care
- Were less likely to have criminal records
Another study – THE study – shows compelling results as well. The Perry Preschool Project was done in 1962-1967 and monitored the individuals till age 40. The findings all lean towards those who participated in preschool programs. They:
- Had fewer teenage pregnancies
- Were more likely to have graduated from high school
- Were more likely to hold a job and have higher earnings
- Committed fewer crimes
- Owned their own home and car
Hard to argue with these findings, isn’t it?
5. Create lifelong learners
Life is a never-ending cycle of learning, isn’t it? And learning doesn’t just happen within the four walls of a classroom. But, the love for learning starts at an early age. It’s one of those habits we talked about earlier.
A person who loves learning will not stop once he gets his high school diploma. He won’t stop when he gets a college degree. He might not go on to get a Master’s or a PhD, but his life will be one which welcomes every little bit of knowledge that he comes across. This only makes his life much richer. Isn’t this what every parent wants for his child?
Start ‘em young!
You probably hear this saying in different contexts, but it is exactly what Pre-K programs and early childhood tutoring do. They give your child an early access pass to a rich and meaningful life that lies ahead of them.
Interested in early childhood tutors and programs? We’re here to provide you with expert guidance. Private Las Vegas Tutors provides the encouragement and nurturing that will give young children the boost they need as they go on to the next levels of their schooling. We will pair you up with a tutor in Las Vegas best suited to your needs and preferences. With our setup, your child will have a level of support they can’t find elsewhere.
That’s an offer you can’t resist. Give us a call, and we’ll help you start ‘em young!