As winter approaches, many parents might consider postponing their child's preschool enrolment until the weather becomes more favourable. While it's natural to want the best for your children, delaying their preschool experience due to the cooler weather might not be in their best interest. At Little Ashford, we believe the benefits of attending preschool during winter far outweigh the challenges posed by the colder months. Here, we will explore the many advantages of sending your child to preschool even when the temperatures drop.
1. Uninterrupted Learning and Development
Children's brains grow and develop rapidly during their early years, making consistent learning experiences crucial (Shonkoff & Phillips, 2000). By sending your child to preschool during winter, you will ensure their learning journey continues uninterrupted. This consistency allows them to build on their existing knowledge and skills, essential for a solid foundation in their education.
2. Building Resilience and Adaptability
Learning to cope with and adapt to different weather conditions is an essential life skill. Experiencing a variety of environments at preschool helps children build resilience and adaptability (Masten, 2014). Attending preschool during winter exposes them to new experiences and opportunities to learn how to navigate these colder months safely and comfortably.
3. Indoor Activities and Curriculum
Preschools like Little Ashford are well-prepared for the winter months, with a curriculum that includes engaging indoor activities that stimulate children's cognitive, physical, and social development (Copple & Bredekamp, 2009). These activities can range from art projects and storytime to music and movement classes. This ensures that children continue to learn and grow despite the cooler weather outside.
4. Physical Activity and Exercise
Contrary to popular belief, winter doesn't have to mean staying cooped up indoors all day. We believe in the importance of physical activity throughout the year (Pellegrini & Smith, 1998). Our facilities are equipped with indoor play areas that allow children to engage in supervised physical play, ensuring they get the exercise they need even during the colder months. They have to play and be active!
5. Socialisation and Peer Interaction
Preschool provides a unique opportunity for children to develop essential social skills and form lasting friendships with their peers (Ladd & Burgess, 2001). Delaying your child's enrolment due to winter could mean missing out on valuable social experiences. Attending preschool during the cooler months helps children build strong bonds with their classmates and fosters a sense of belonging and community.
6. Strengthening Immune Systems
While it's true that winter can bring an increased risk of colds and flu, regular exposure to different environments can help strengthen children's immune systems (Murphy et al., 2012). Sending your child to preschool during winter allows them to build immunity by being exposed to various germs in a controlled environment. Furthermore, preschools like Little Ashford prioritise cleanliness and hygiene to minimise the spread of illnesses.
Winter shouldn't be a reason to delay your child's preschool experience. By embracing the benefits of attending preschool during winter, you will be setting your child up for success and providing them with the opportunity to flourish throughout the year. Supported by research, the advantages of preschool attendance during the colder months are clear, and your child's development will benefit from the experiences and opportunities provided during this time.
So, reach out!
References:
Shonkoff, J.P. & Phillips, D.A., 2000. From Neurons to Neighbourhoods: The Science of Early Childhood Development. Washington, D.C.: National Academies Press.
Masten, A.S., 2014. Ordinary Magic: Resilience in Development. New York: Guilford Press.
Copple, C. & Bredekamp, S., 2009. Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth through Age 8. Washington, D.C.: National Association for the Education of Young Children.
Pellegrini, A.D. & Smith, P.K., 1998. Physical Activity Play: The Nature and Function of a Neglected Aspect of Play. Child Development, 69(3), 577-598.
Ladd, G.W. & Burgess, K.B., 2001. Do Relational Risks and Protective Factors Moderate the Linkages Between Childhood Aggression and Early Psychological and School Adjustment? Child Development, 72(5), 1579-1601.
Murphy, K., Weaver, C., Janeway, C.A., Travers, P. & Walport, M., 2012. Janeway's Immunobiology. 8th ed. New York: Garland Science.