The importance of early childhood education cannot be overstated. A child’s early years provide the foundation for lifelong learning, establishing crucial cognitive and social development. At this stage in our nation’s journey, creating a solid framework upon which to build children’s educational foundation and basic skills is imperative. Education begins at home, yet it is in early educational environments that children encounter certified professionals who nurture their potential.
In her 2023 sectoral presentation, then-education minister Fayval Williams highlighted key skills essential for the 21st century, which the education sector must cultivate. These include critical thinking – problem-solving and asking why; creativity – exploring new perspectives leading to innovation; collaboration – fostering teamwork, compromise, and effective problem-solving; and communication – teaching students to convey ideas effectively across personality types in various settings. Such foundational skills cannot be introduced only in advanced stages. They must begin in early childhood.
With increased emphasis on funding for education, early childhood is in the spotlight more than ever. New education minister Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon has pledged to help every child in the ministry’s institutions unlock their potential. During her tour of the ministry’s Kingston headquarters on October 30, she reiterated the importance of an effective education sector to national development. “This ministry is about our children. There are many bright, young children in Jamaica with potential to do big things for Jamaica and the world. They just need us to clear a path for them,” she noted. Among her key priorities is early childhood education, which she cited as critical, adding that she intends to build on the ministry’s ongoing work. “We must magnify these efforts, show the world what we’re doing, and ensure no child is left behind. Early childhood education is the critical foundation. While we must continue with remediation, we need to get early childhood right,” the minister stated.
Society must recognise the importance of early childhood education in establishing a robust educational foundation. This principle underpins the Montessori method, which is becoming widely used in Jamaica and globally. Montessori’s approach emphasises individualised instruction and self-paced learning based on the belief that children are inherently curious and capable of independent learning. Unlike traditional models, which group children by age and assume that they are at the same developmental stage, Montessori education recognises varied developmental rates and meets each child accordingly. Classrooms are structured to allow children of different ages to learn from each other.
Montessori education posits that a child’s first six years are the optimal period for development and warns that neglect in these years can impair lifelong learning capacity even if innate intelligence is within the normal range. This approach also values hands-on learning, allowing children to explore concepts according to their learning style.
Proponents of early childhood education cite key benefits, starting with socialisation. They believe that interacting with others outside the family in a safe setting is essential. Responsible parents appreciate the value of friendship groups, which help children overcome shyness and build self-confidence. Cooperation and learning to share are other crucial principles. For a first or only child, this lesson is especially valuable.
Montessori education promotes enthusiasm for learning, reading, and discovery by making lessons engaging and stimulating. Introducing children to preschool also provides them with a new perspective on the importance of education that will accompany them through their school journey. In this environment, children learn to respect people, belongings, and both their immediate and external surroundings.
Preschool introduces teamwork skills that instil respect for others’ opinions, listening, and cooperation. A child who learns teamwork early will generally be more socially attuned and employable. Furthermore, it is essential for educators and parents to cultivate resilience in children from a young age. In a secure, fair social setting, with consistent expectations and predictable consequences, children learn to manage themselves and their emotions. Educators must provide a challenging environment where children learn through first-hand experiences.
In these early years, children seize every opportunity to encounter new experiences, friends, and environments. Parents must, however, remain vigilant. Every day, parents face situations where vigilance and patience are tested. Nonetheless, children benefit from chances to explore, which requires parents’ patience, allowing children to develop caution and patience by example.
Helping children build confidence and self-esteem is equally critical. Positive interactions with peers and teachers foster a healthy self-view, enabling children to approach situations confidently throughout life. Valuing diversity is vital for early development. Early childhood education teaches children to appreciate differences, making them well-rounded contributors to society. When my son was a preschooler, I had a wonderful helper he was very attached to. On Saturdays, she often took him to play with children his age in her downtown neighbourhood, an experience that has greatly helped his ability to relate to others. Children need to understand that everyone is unique, with their own culture and background.
In sum, preschool is much more than play. Beyond basic educational gains in literacy and numeracy, preschool provides invaluable benefits, shaping children into well-rounded individuals.
Berl Francis is a communication consultant. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com [2].