How to choose a Preschool for your child?
What is a Preschool?
Preschool also known as a pre-primary or nursey school is a learning phase child care facility which assists in the development of young children. Many nursery schools offer a day care programme for babies and toddlers as young as 6 months old while some Pre-primary schools admit children from the age of 18 months and upward.
Commonly, children 3 to 6 years of age are enrolled into a preschool where they are taught a combination of fundamental, play based learning, hands on activities and developmental skills. Preschools or nursery schools play an integral role in early childhood development.
Why should a child go to a preschool?
As a parent, it is normal to have concerns about sending your child to school at young age and many parents often opt to keep their children at home. However, research suggests that “children in day care gain better social and behavioural skills that give them a leg up in life”.
High-quality, and nurturing preschools can help improve a child’s reading skills, basic math skills and vocabulary in their early years of development. In addition, preschools can reinforce vital social skills such as sharing, making friends, teamwork, following simple direction and the ability to think independently. These skills can contribute to the development of a child, physically, emotionally and socially but how can you be sure that your child is ready for preschool?
Common signs that your child is ready for preschool include:
1. Your child is toilet/potty trained
This is a requirement of many preschools as it allows children a more enjoyable experience at school. It reduces a child’s worry and anxiety around “having an accident” which can be an embarrassing and shameful experience for a young child. Some preschools will cater for children who are not potty trained (generally in Grade 0000) and potty training will form part of the skills the children learn.
2. Your child can spend time alone (Independent Play)
Your child is comfortable in their own silence which usually indicates that they can concentrate for a longer period without getting distracted.
3. Your child can focus on a task for longer
Your child can focus on a given task without losing concentration or without getting easily distracted. This means that he/she will be able to listen to the teacher, take direction or focus on classroom tasks or homework.
4. Your child can interact with others
Your child feels comfortable in the presence of other kids and adults and can be away from their parents for a longer period. Moreover, your child is has developed social skills and can share, play and communicate with others.
5. Your child can communicate their needs
One of the most important signs that your child is ready for preschool is their ability to communicate their needs i.e. “I’m hungry”, “I want to lie down” or “my tummy hurts”. This shows that your child will be more confident in communicating their needs to their teacher.
You may see that your child possesses many of these qualities but what is better for a child, a half day or full-day preschool?
“A research study found that children who attend full-day programs are more school-ready than those who attend half-day programs.” Full day preschools allow a child more freedom to socialize, learn, explore, and play in a day.
Learning through play at Trinityhouse
The Trinityhouse holistic education and care programme of a learn through play methodology is combined with a sensory integrated perceptual programme and is implemented by our highly qualified teachers.
Learn through play aims to:
- Promote the emotional, social and physical development of the child.
- Develop a positive attitude towards school and learning through a nurturing environment.
- Build the foundation of all academic areas.
- Provide an atmosphere which allows for creativity and the love of God.
- Provide guidance in developing self-discipline.
- Develop the ability to communicate.
- Provide opportunities for the child to learn to reason, solve problems, make decisions, draw conclusions, and express opinions without fear and rejection.
What are the requirements for Pre- Primary at Trinityhouse?
- Grade 0000, 000 and 00 - parents are required to submit their ID copies, birth certificate and pay the R550 application fee, once application is processed, an offer will be made to the parent and.
- Parents/care givers will be required an enrolment fee of R5850 to secure their child’s space.
- Grade R/0 - parents are required to provide their ID copies and need to provide their child’s birth certificate, latest school report (if available) and pay the R550 application fee.
- For entry into Grade 0 your child will be required to complete an assessment which helps the school identify any areas of concern and this has no bearing in weather Trinityhouse accepts your child or not but is used as a starting base for our teachers to work from.
Early learning helps to promote vital life skills and assists in the physical, social and emotional developmental milestones of a child. With four beautiful and well-maintained campuses, Trinityhouse schools are a home away from home. Through our system of consistent communication between our parents and teachers we are able to provide your child with the education and care that they require at their young age.
Looking for a Preschool in Randburg (Randpark Ridge)?
For a school in Randburg. Tel:(011) 794–8564, Email: dpage@trinityhouse.co.za. Enquire or Apply.
Looking for a Preschool in Centurion?
Tel:(012) 003-1395, Email: heritagehillinquiries@trinityhouse.co.za. Enquire or Apply.
Looking for a Preschool in Glenvista (JHB South)?
Tel: (010) 003-3944 | 081 821 4852, Email: mmotsepe@trinityhouse.co.za. Enquire or Apply.
Looking for a Preschool in Roodepoort?
Tel: 087-353-7898 Email: admin@trinityhouse.co.za. Enquire or Apply.
At Trinityhouse, we believe in the development and growth of children from a young age. We facilitate this growth through our holistic early childhood education programme. For more information on who we are, you can find out more here.
Sources:
Early childhood education yields big benefits
Signs your child is ready for preschool
5 Signs to Know if Your Child is Ready For Preschool
How to know if your child is ready for preschool
Is in house day care right for your children
