The start of the school year is approaching and some parents will be considering whether or not to opt for a nursery school. This is an important decision and With this post we want to help you assess the pros and cons of nursery schools.
The first cycle of early childhood education is non-compulsory. However, it fulfills an educational function because it provides learning elements for their personal development. Some professionals believe that nursery schools meet the needs of parents but do not provide children with closeness and security.
Benefits of nursery schools
Each nursery school has its idiosyncrasies but all of them They must have an educational project and comply with specific regulations.
Its educators have a higher degree, professional experience and a strong vocation. Its role goes far beyond changing diapers and cleaning snot.
From 0 to 3 years old, children's brains have great plasticity. That is why the quality of the stimuli you receive is so important. During this stage, meeting the affective, cognitive and social needs is as important as covering the physical and biological ones. At school they promotes self-esteem, autonomy, respect, tolerance and dialogue.
Everyday activities
All moments of the day and the sequence of activities have an educational value. During everyday situations (food, rest, hygiene, etc.) activities of all kinds are carried out. Experimentation, discovery, manipulation, movement, communication, etc. It is a mistake to think that children will learn specific subjects and content earlier. In no case is this the goal.
The environment and the relationship with families
The nursery school aims to offer a safe and trusting environment where children can develop physically, cognitively, emotionally and emotionally. Schools provide recreational and convivial spaces rich in stimuli for children to learn through play. Its objective is that the learning is meaningful and for this a close bond is established with the families.
Values: coexistence and diversity
In nursery schools special attention is paid to diversity, detection of special educational needs and intervention in developmental difficulties. Most nursery schools are in contact with social services, early care centers and psycho-pedagogical guidance teams.
Disadvantages of nursery schools
Sometimes it is not possible to choose the nursery school that we like the most. Perhaps it is too far, it is too expensive, it has a waiting list, it does not adapt to your schedules or needs, etc.
Unfortunately the ranges established in nursery school classes they are quite tall and this means that the care is not as individualized as one might expect.
Although schools have very clear rules about keeping sick children in class, the risk of disease transmission is higher than when they stay at home. Some experts who claim that this way your immune system is strengthened.
Leading advocates of home parenting insist on the critical role of children's relationships with their mothers in emotional and intellectual development. For them the love, warmth and closeness of a mother are irreplaceable.
Alternatives to nursery school
In addition to take care of children at home or choose a traditional nursery school there are other options. Leave it in the care of a relative, find a babysitter, day mothers, foster groups, free education schools. One of them may be more of your interest and convenience. You can also combine several of these alternatives.
Conclusion
Nursery schools in the 0-3 stage can bring a number of benefits to children. However, there are a number of disadvantages that must also be considered.
Each family is a world and has its own ideology, values and needs. Nursery school it can be a good or bad option depending on the characteristics and expectations of each family nucleus.
The most important thing is that you feel confident in your choice and that it is in harmony with your values and lifestyle.