What are some effective teaching methods for preschoolers

Child psychology research says preschoolers learn best through hands-on experiences, playful exploration, and social interaction. Education in this form will help a toddler with cognitive, social, and emotional development. This blog will dive into some teaching and learning methods apt for preschool education.

Understanding the Learning Needs of Our Preschoolers

Preschoolers, aged 3–5, have growing brains that absorb information. According to Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development, children in the preoperational stage (ages 2–7) develop symbolic thinking, allowing them to use language, drawings, and pretend play to represent the world around them. Their imagination expands, storytelling skills emerge, and they begin forming basic concepts.

Effective Teaching Methods for Preschoolers

Play-based Learning

Background:

Play-based teaching and learning methodologies were introduced by pioneers Friedrich Froebel (who began kindergarten) and Lev Vygotsky, who highlighted the importance of social play in cognitive development. Children explore concepts via play rather than direct instruction.

How It Works:

• Children understand abstract concepts with hands-on experiences.
• Children develop cognitive and motor skills.
• Storytelling, building blocks, and role-playing help children with language and problem-solving.

Example:

A ‘play’ grocery store where children ‘buy’ and ‘sell’ articles using pretend money can be created to teach the concept of counting. Children learn basic math with engaging interactions.

Why It Works:

• This approach encourages self-expression and creativity.
• Children understand problem-solving and collaboration.
• Social play enhances cooperation and communication.

Reggio Emilia Approach

Background:

The traumatising post-World War II period began with the child-led Reggio Emilia approach by educator Loris Malaguzzi. Children study subjects they are interested in, while parents and teachers act as facilitators.

How It Works:

• A child’s journey is recorded via projects and discussions.
• Collaborative teaching methods are used, nudging kids to interact and share ideas.
• Classrooms are designed as open-ended learning ecosystems, loaded with curiosity-inducing materials.

Example:

Children curious about butterflies can be taken on nature walks and included in creative activities like storytelling.

Why It Works:

• Children develop independent thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Encourages curiosity and adaptability.
• Enhances communication and collaboration skills.

Waldorf Education

Background:

Waldorf education, developed by Rudolf Steiner in the early 1900s, emphasises a holistic learning experience by weaving arts, music, and movement into children’s education. Several schools across the nation incorporate it with zeal today.

How It Works:

• The main focus is storytelling, music, and rhythm to teach kids language and cognitive skills.
• Children feel assured with a sense of security and structure.
• Avoids screentime and lessens traditional academic pressures.

Example:

A lesson on seasons can involve songs about the weather, seasonal crafts, and storytelling.

Why It Works:

• Enhances emotional and sensory development.
• Nurtures creativity and imagination.
• Children can explore the world at their own pace.

Experiential Learning

Background:

Based on John Dewey’s educational philosophy, learning through experience is found to be one of the effective teaching strategies. Preschoolers tend to learn best when they interact with their environment. Students of international schools in Goregaon connect with the real world and real-life situations this way.

How It Works:

• Teachers introduce concepts through direct experiences rather than rote memorisation.
• Encourages trial and error, allowing children to learn problem-solving skills naturally.
• Learning is connected to real-world applications.

Example:

Instead of explaining how plants grow by reading from a textbook, children plant seeds, water them, and observe their growth over time.

Why It Works:

• Makes abstract concepts easier to grasp.
• Builds confidence and independence.
• Encourages exploration and curiosity.

Preschool Teaching Made Easy: Best Practices for Early Learning

Structured Yet Flexible Routines

Preschools in Borivali of Witty Schools focus on a structured routine that adapts to each child’s needs. A predictable schedule builds confidence, while flexibility encourages curiosity and independence.

Hands-on Exploration for Active Learning

We include interactive playtime, creative assignments, and sensory activities, where children develop motor and cognitive skills. Various teaching methods ensure they learn by doing, along with listening. We find that with this approach, we are feeding on the fact that preschoolers find interest in activities that they can engage in.

Visual Learning for Stronger Retention

Colourful charts, picture books, and flashcards make learning fun. These teaching methods and strategies at Witty Schools for understanding and retaining make education a fascinating journey.

Encouraging Social and Emotional Growth

We believe that children grow socially and emotionally with group activities. With storytelling and role-playing, they learn teamwork, effective communication, and empathy. These improve their emotional intelligence and social confidence.

Play-Based Learning for Holistic Development

We include singing, dancing, and storytelling, making learning entertaining. We also do so to bring out the budding creativity innate in young minds. With engaging play-based experiences, children develop a love for learning. At Witty Schools, early education goes above and beyond academics. Our approach is child-led, with hands-on exploration, interactive activities, and play-based learning to build a strong base for education. Our different teaching methods encourage active participation, driving children’s development of critical thinking skills and improving their emotional growth.  All children can feel excited to learn. They need to be steered towards that happy path, the task at hand. We take great pride in being a major part of their first steps towards a successful lifestyle. Are school admissions in Mumbai a competitive race? No doubt they are. But at Witty Schools, we concentrate on what truly matters—training young minds for a bright future. We want to mould holistic individuals who flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. Let’s all work towards making these tots amazing individuals.