Preschool?

Posted by: Sharmila Rajah

All set for school

It all happened quite unexpectedly. A visit to a preschool sparked off Ayanna's latest adventure – attending preschool.

We initially planned on starting her next year, unsure if it was still too young for the little one. However her first trial visit has led to numerous others. Ayanna seems to have adjusted well to her environment, teacher and friends.

Experts say if a child is nurtured adequately at home he does not need preschool. However a well-balanced, stimulating, pressure-free early childhood programme can be enriching and exciting. We considered preschool mainly for the interaction Ayanna will have with kids her age. We hope that she will acquire essential skills such as how to cooperate, take turns, help with chores, follow rules and instructions, make decisions. While the programme should not over-emphasis on academic achievement, it should challenge and stimulate a child intellectually and creatively .

Preschool has also been liberating for me- the few hours Ayanna spends away enables me to complete chores around the house, focus on my writing, catch up on some reading and on some days, relish a pedicure.

What's your take on it - how much of preschool does a two-year old really need?