As you’re searching for a preschool program for your child, Imagination Childcare Academy in Rochester, NY, recommends making sure that any prospective schools include structured play in their curriculum. To prepare students for kindergarten and beyond, their team of NYS-certified educators implement structured play into their classrooms, thus putting leading pedagogical theories about early childhood education into practice.

If you’ve never heard of the term “structured play” and how it relates to early childhood education, check out the following reasons why it should be a crucial component of preschool programs:

• Promotes Positive Learning Environment: The younger a child is, the more important it is that they enjoy the learning process. In their early years, it’s crucial that they spend time actively constructing their learning environment through play and activity, rather than passively sitting at desks. This encourages the development of cognitive skills necessary in primary school.
• Encourages Social Interaction: Another critical component of preschool is familiarizing your kids with their peers. In a play-based preschool program, they have a unique opportunity to learn, while also working closely with other children and building social skills that last a lifetime.
• Builds Strong Self-Concept: Enrolling your child in a preschool enables them to see themselves outside of the family context. This means that they will get a chance to interact with others and build strong social and emotional skills that lead to the development of a well-rounded individual. This is especially the case at Imagination Childcare Academy, where students are encouraged to pursue their curiosity to learn.

Understanding the benefits of structured play in your child’s preschool program will enable you to choose the right learning center when the time comes. To learn more about Imagination Childcare Academy, call (585) 413-3948 or visit them online for an overview of their programs, including before school, after school, child care, and preschool.