“Near ink, one gets stained black; near a lamp, one gets light,” this proverb affirms the importance of the educational environment for the development of young children. So, at the age of 4, what will future sprouts learn at preschool to prepare for first grade?
4-Year-Olds – The First Explorations of Knowledge
Age 4 is a “golden” stage for children to develop comprehensively in terms of physical, intellectual, and emotional aspects. At this time, children’s curiosity and receptivity are very high. Preschool, like a colorful “nursery garden,” will help children explore the world around them in a fun and effective way.
1. Language Development – Fluent Communication
“The tongue has no bones, yet it can speak volumes,” our ancestors have likened the importance of communication. At preschool, children will develop language skills through:
- Learning to speak and sing: Children will learn to pronounce words correctly, use vocabulary accurately, and be exposed to fun and educational children’s songs.
- Storytelling and reciting poetry: Fairy tales and children’s poems will help children develop imagination, memory, and concentration.
- Language games: Games like “riddles,” “storytelling with pictures,” “saying the opposite,” etc., will help children play and learn effectively.
According to preschool education expert Nguyen Thi Thu Huong, author of the book “Preschool Education – From Theory to Practice,” language development is the foundation for the comprehensive development of children. It helps children communicate effectively, express thoughts and emotions, and lays the groundwork for learning other subjects in the future.
2. Cognitive Development – Exploring the World Around
“Learning goes hand in hand with practice,” that is the educational motto that every educator aims for. At preschool, children will learn and explore the world around them through:
- Learning activities: Children learn about numbers, letters, colors, shapes, basic concepts of science, history, geography, etc.
- Experiential activities: Visiting the zoo, museums, playgrounds, etc., helps children absorb knowledge in a direct and lively way.
- Creative activities: Drawing, clay modeling, shaping, etc., help children develop thinking and creativity skills and spark a passion for art.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Ha, a psychology expert, once shared: “Children learn most effectively when they experience reality. Preschool needs to create conditions for children to be exposed to a diverse environment, stimulating their curiosity and exploration abilities.”
3. Physical Development – Improving Health
“Health is gold,” this saying is always true for all ages. Preschool will help children train physically through:
- Movement activities: Playing movement games such as running, jumping, playing soccer, badminton, etc., helps children develop physical strength and improve health.
- Physical exercise activities: Gentle exercises suitable for their age will help children train flexibility, agility, and improve health.
- Outdoor activities: Playing outdoors in the early sun and exposure to nature will help children absorb vitamin D and strengthen resistance.
4. Social Skills Development – Integration and Sharing
“A good leaf protects a torn leaf,” the spirit of mutual love and support is a precious tradition of the Vietnamese people. At preschool, children will learn how to:
- Cooperate with friends: Playing with friends, sharing toys, helping friends when they encounter difficulties, etc.
- Listen to and respect the opinions of others: Knowing how to communicate politely, showing respect for friends and teachers.
- Develop self-reliance skills: Knowing how to eat, dress themselves, clean up toys, etc.
According to Professor Nguyen Van Minh, an education expert, “Developing social skills for children from a young age will help children form good character, know how to love, share, and integrate into the community.”
The Story of a 4-Year-Old Girl and a Sea Exploration Trip
Today, Hoa’s preschool class has an exciting field trip: visiting the marine museum. Hoa is very excited, as this is the first time she has met strange sea creatures.
At the museum, Hoa saw colorful fish, beautiful starfish, and crabs hiding under the sand. The teacher explained to her the importance of protecting the marine environment. Hoa was very surprised to learn that plastic waste can harm marine life.
Hoa promised her teacher that she would always keep the environment clean, not litter, and call on everyone to join hands to protect the blue sea.
How to Choose the Right Preschool for a 4-Year-Old?
“A tree has roots, water has a source,” choosing the right preschool is very important. To choose a good preschool, parents need to pay attention to the following:
- Choose a preschool with good facilities: Spacious, clean, and safe classrooms; outdoor playground, indoor play area, diverse learning materials.
- Choose a preschool with a good team of teachers: Having pedagogical expertise, loving children, and having teaching experience suitable for the age group.
- Choose a preschool with a suitable curriculum: The curriculum must comprehensively develop children, combining learning and play, creating a fun and friendly environment.
Remember that preschool is not only a place to help children learn knowledge, but also a place to nurture their souls, helping them grow up and confidently step into life.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does a 4-year-old need to learn to read before entering first grade?
According to experts, teaching children to read early can put pressure on them. Instead of teaching children to read, parents should create a friendly environment and stimulate their curiosity through games and creative activities.
- Does a 4-year-old need to attend extra classes?
Whether a child needs to attend extra classes depends on the child’s abilities and needs. If the child is psychologically comfortable and proactive in learning, parents can let them participate in some extra classes such as drawing, music, sports, etc.
- How to help children learn well at preschool?
Parents should create a comfortable learning environment for their children at home, stimulating their curiosity and learning abilities through fun activities, conversations, and reading books.
Conclusion
Preschool is a place to nurture knowledge and nourish the souls of children. Choose the right preschool to give your child happy and joyful school years.
You can learn more about the preschool curriculum or share your experiences by leaving a comment below. Let’s work together to create a good educational environment for the future of the young generation!