SPECIAL SECTION:
EARLY EDUCATION
The next generation is starting to have children. This
generation grew up in the 1980s and early 1990s, when
televisions were “old news” and computers were just
starting to creep into people’s homes. Gen Yers, as they’ve
been named, can still vividly remember the sound of the
dial-up tone as they anticipated the number of emails
that would rush into their inbox once the modem finally
connected. For these new parents, the answer to any
question is, and almost always was, just a click away.
These parents are aware of the benefits of early childhood
learning and of the plethora of options available to
them. In addition, shifting demographic patterns, with
an increase in two working parents and single-parent
households, are calling for affordable options for child
care.
As the importance and positive impact that early
childhood education has on toddlers is realized, the
demand for early education options continues to increase
and expand offerings. A few key focus areas have been
identified as important initiatives that will shape the
young minds of the future, including early literacy,
technology in the classroom, and emotional, cognitive,
social early learning (ECSEL).
EDUCATION
Early literacy teaches children letter recognition, word
sounds, vocabulary, and awareness of storytelling. Each of
these key fundamental elements helps lay the groundwork
for success in reading in the future. Early literacy programs
can also be found at local libraries as a way for parents
to engage their children even if they are not enrolled in a
preschool program.
Technology is something our children must learn
and understand to succeed today. But it is important for
technology in the classroom to be used properly and
not abused. Early childhood educators are combining
technologies with other types of play and hands-on
activities to get the most out of the tools available to them.
Such tools allow for young learners to work cooperatively
on learning activities with the use of technology to enhance
their lessons.
ECSEL focuses on teaching children how to understand
and manage emotions to become more confident, resilient,
and understanding, which are all critical to the success of
a young learner. Laying the foundation to build an early
understanding of feelings and emotions allows children
to better recognize emotions in others and how to cope
with them. These valuable life skills add a tremendous
amount of value to a young child’s understanding of healthy
relationships with his/her peers. ■
NORWIN ❘ FALL 2019
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