Education
PRESCHOOL
TRENDS IN EARLY
CHILDHOOD
LEARNING
Early childhood learning
has been studied by
educators, lawmakers and
researchers for years to identify
the importance of learning at a young
age. Research has confirmed that when
educators provide a valuable education to early learners, the benefits last
a lifetime. According to Educa, preschool stakeholders across the U.S.
are addressing the need for a standard in consistency and quality in early
education. States are taking a look at child care centers, daycares and preschools
to develop an accreditation program that ensures quality in a number of areas
including learning environment, increased parent engagement, teacher experience
and quality center management.
Along with quality standardization, there are other trends to keep an eye on for early
learners:
• Student Assessment – The achievement gap is often used to assess the output of
students in different socioeconomic groups, measuring grade point averages, test
scores and dropout rates. Since preschoolers aren’t likely dropping out of school,
early learning centers focus on the importance of providing ongoing education
and supporting students from a young age. This includes reading to children,
engaging them in everyday conversations, establishing routines and using positive
reinforcement.
• Classroom Technology – Although use of technology in early learning is still heavily
debated, it is proving to be a valuable resource to students who may not as easily have
access to learning materials. According to the Pew Research Center, 73 percent of
households have a computer with internet accessibility, providing a platform for early
learners to participate in effective online education from their homes.
• ECSEL Skills – Teachers are encouraged to incorporate Emotional Cognitive Social
Early Learning (ECSEL) into lesson plans for preschoolers. At a young age, emotions
are the tool of choice for children to express themselves. Encouraging early learners
to be confident and understanding at a young age provides an important platform for
growth into adolescence. ■
West County | Fall 2017 | icmags.com 19