22Jun
Parents of young children may have been hearing about something called a “school readiness program”. While the term sounds like it might be obvious – as in, getting kids ready for school – what is the program exactly and how does it help get young kids ready for the school years to come?
In this article, we’re going to be answering the question: What is a school readiness program? We’ll look into what it is, what’s involved and where parents can send their children to attend a school readiness program.
What Is a School Readiness Program?
The idea behind the concept of a school readiness program is to make the transition from preschool age into school a smooth one. Rather than a child being abruptly thrust from the security of their home life directly into a school environment, a school readiness program is designed to ease young kids into the school years by equipping them with knowledge and skills well beforehand. This makes the transition way less abrupt and far easier for a child to handle.
Essentially, it’s like receiving training well before school starts. Anyone, no matter what age, will enter into something with a lot more confidence if they’ve had some prior training and are prepared.
In this instance, that training and preparedness are for starting school.
How a School Readiness Program Helps Children Prepare For School
One of the key things a school readiness program focuses on is teaching children the basics in core subjects, so that when they do start school, they begin with an understanding of these subjects and what will be expected of them.
For example, there is the THRASS system, which encompasses subjects like reading, spelling, English and handwriting skills. The THRASS system has been implemented in schools and early learning centres since 1998, with much success.
There is also the STEM system. STEM deals with science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Not only that, but young kids also get to learn about computers and using different types of computer software.
The above two systems have been designed to give kids a head start on core subjects, which these days includes learning about computers. School readiness is about more than learning the basics of school subjects, though.
One of the most difficult adjustments for young children when starting school is having a lack of confidence and social skills. If you think about a child going directly from home life into school, it’s a massive life change and it’s very sudden. Things like separation anxiety can set in and kids don’t really know what to expect when school starts.
Aside from teaching kids the basics of important school subjects, which definitely gives them confidence leading into school, children will be involved in other activities in the school readiness program that will build their self-confidence and improve their social interaction.
Both confidence and social skills are vital for a child to have when school commences. With this comes a degree of independence and autonomy, making separation anxiety far less likely. Communication skills are also highly encouraged during the school readiness program, as communication is also a vital skill to have when thrust into a school environment.
All of the above adds up to children having loads more confidence when they begin the school years.
Where Can Kids Attend a School Readiness Program?
The best and most efficient way to get your kids involved in a school readiness program is to enrol your child or children in an early learning centre. Just about all early education facilities will have some form of school readiness program in place, as it’s generally considered a vital part of the curriculum these days.
Not only do kids get prepared for the school years to come, but early learning centres are also daycare centres, where parents can leave their children in safe hands while they go off to work or attend to other duties.
To discover a school readiness program run by an early education centre in your location, simply go online and do a search for your area.
In Conclusion
The school readiness program effectively prepares young children and makes for a smooth transition into school, without fear and full of confidence. If you want your child to get the best start in life, consider enrolling them in a school readiness program. Contact Endeavour Early Education for more details on our school readiness program.
