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  Jeannie Fleming-Gifford

Thursday, June 09, 2011 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford

I giggled when I read Stef’s blog the other day about not sending her four year old to preschool.

Why?

My munchkin has been in an early-childhood setting since she turned 18-months-old. One reason for this is my desire to continue to work professionally outside of the home. The other reason is that I simply believe in the value of preschool and other early-childhood education programs.

I also believe that the role of parenthood is to raise an independent child. As much as I like to think about my little one adoring me as she does now well into adulthood; I know that real parenting success will be defined by her taking flight, leaving our nest, and pursuing her dreams. I believe that in order to give her this opportunity it does take the village. I do not have to, nor do I want to; parent her all on my own. We are in this together and I believe that the value of an early-childhood education can support my goals in helping her fully develop.

There is more to this than just my opinion.

Remember, long before coming into motherhood I was working and researching in the field of child development. It’s my thing. It’s my thing because I believe in the value and impact of quality early-childhood education.

Here are a few facts taken from a synthesis of studies on the impact of early-childhood education (remember, preschool IS different from childcare):

Research confirms that a quality early-childhood care program may enhance social and cognitive (intellectual) development for middle-class children as well as disadvantaged children.

Research also confirmed that children, especially from low-income families, who have received childcare have shown short-term cognitive effects (e.g. immediate and positive intellectual gains and better preparation for entry into school); long-term cognitive effects (e.g. fewer grade retentions, reduced placement in special education classes, and greater high school completion and employment rates); and social-emotional effects (e.g. better self-esteem, higher ratings in social and emotional maturity, less antisocial behavior, and lower crime rate).

I understand that sending a child to preschool may not be for everyone, but there are definitely benefits to be had. It’s also worth noting that there are many different programs out there, and the value and need of programs vary greatly.

If not a formal early-childhood program, children also benefit from community programs offered through libraries, recreation centers, fine arts organizations, and park systems. The goal is to introduce, educate, and inspire your little one to learn.

There are many different routes to take; no one size will fit all and the benefits will differ from child to child.

Are you going to put your child in preschool?

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