Preschoolers learn from working together.

Do young children really need environments tailored for the learning of specific skills to thrive in today's society? Are we making too much of preschool--is it really that necessary to enroll Johnny or Janey in the community's up and coming preparatory school? Is there too much pressure and emphasis put upon parents to "get ahead" and have their child on the noble tract to learning that's designed by private companies? Of course not! Children need all the help they can get. And what better way to have a lasting effect on a child than to immerse him or her in a creative, loving, supportive and structured environment such as preschool? I understand there are differing opinions on this matter and perhaps I am taking the less popular viewpoint but the way I see it, it DOES take a village to raise a child. In the past several weeks I have had the wonderful opportunity to observe and interact with different preschool environments in the area and I must say I am impressed! I can't say enough about the schools we have visited as part of this semester's pediatric fieldwork rotation.

Formal learning provides a child with structure that introduces them to "rules of fair play" which when followed, make socialization and the navigation of life's transitions smoother. And a formal environment such as daycare, preschool, or Sunday school can also provide informal learning situations as it fosters collaboration with each other and imitation of one another within the confines of play time. As children age they tend to form groups and to function as a larger whole to accomplish goals. This time is so important to social and emotional skills development. Because play is a child's main occupation, it facilitates overall learning in what is a child's most natural environment. But play supported by structure creates the added benefits of consistent exploration, positive influences, and experienced, adult guidance if needed.

Skills ranging from small and large motor skills, listening skills, literacy and language development, and math skills are just a few to name that all children should be supported in from an early age. Mastery of these skills helps set the tone for a child's self-confidence and esteem as well as helps make them ready for public school and all it has to offer. Structured time can give a child tools for living. Tools for living can help a child grow into a productive and fulfilled member of society. And in this way the child can give back what was provided for them--a opportunity to grow into the person they want to be!