South Huntsville Neighbors, July 2024

EDUCATION
© Best Version Media
Preparing for a New School Year:
Why Should You Consider Preschool for Your Child?
By Tori Smith, Ardent Preschool
As the new school year approaches, parents often find themselves
contemplating the best educational path for their young children.
Among the various options available, preschool stands out as a
critical stage in early childhood education. The benefits of enrolling
your child in preschool extend beyond basic academics, laying a robust
foundation for lifelong learning and development. Here’s why
investing in an early childhood education experience at Ardent Preschool
& Daycare is a step you can’t afford to miss for your child.
Social and Emotional Development
One of the most significant benefits of preschool is the opportunity
it provides for social and emotional development. Children interact
with their peers, learn to share, cooperate, and resolve conflicts.
These interactions are crucial for developing empathy and understanding
the dynamics of friendships. Additionally, Ardent teaches
core Christian values and character traits. These values become a
foundation that teaches children to be respectful and well-mannered,
both towards their peers and adults.
Math and Literacy Foundation
We believe that literacy starts at infancy. We begin by introducing
our youngest infants to their letters and numbers. These foundational
skills are essential for academic success in later years. Through
songs, stories, games, and hands-on activities, children learn to recognize
letters, numbers, shapes, and patterns. They begin to understand
the basics of counting, problem-solving, and phonics, which
are critical for reading and mathematical proficiency. Early exposure
to these concepts in a structured yet fun environment sets the
stage for future academic achievements.
Learning Independence
Preschool is a perfect environment for children to start learning independence.
Away from the immediate comfort of home, children are
encouraged to take responsibility for simple tasks, such as putting
away toys, washing hands, and making choices. These experiences
help children develop a sense of autonomy and self-reliance. Learning
to take care of themselves and their belongings fosters self-confidence
and prepares them for more structured settings in the future.
Learning How to Function in a Group Learning Environment
At Ardent, children learn how to function in a group learning environment,
which is a vital skill for their educational journey. They
participate in group activities, take turns, and collaborate on projects.
This group dynamic teaches children the importance of teamwork
and communication. Moreover, being part of a classroom
community helps children understand their role within a group and
the impact of their actions on others. These experiences are fundamental
in shaping responsible and socially aware individuals.
Kindergarten Readiness
One of the primary goals at Ardent is to prepare children for kindergarten.
Our program is designed to introduce children to the structure
and expectations of a formal school environment. This includes
developing fine motor skills, math skills, and literacy fundamentals.
Children also learn to follow routines, listen to instructions,
and transition between activities smoothly. These skills are crucial
for a successful transition to kindergarten, where a higher level of
independence and focus is required.
Ardent Preschool & Daycare offers a wealth of benefits that go beyond
academic learning. We are preparing children for success socially,
emotionally and academically. We view the early education
that Ardent offers as an investment into the future of your child. Set
them up for a path of lifelong success, schedule a tour at a location
near you soon!
bestversionmedia.com JULY 2024 13