Pre-kindergarten and preschool share several similarities, all of which focus on the mental and social-emotional growth and development of little ones. And while both help children learn through fun and engaging activities, there are key differences between the two. Learn about the similarities and differences here to determine what is best for your child right now.

What You Need To Know About Pre-Kindergarten & Preschool

How They’re Similar

Both preschool and pre-kindergarten provide children with a variety of activities that help them learn and grow in fun, engaging ways, including those based around music, art, numbers, letters, and social skills such as sharing and working together as a team.

Kids in preschool and pre-kindergarten also spend time outdoors running around and enjoying playground equipment, which helps them fine-tune their motor skills, increase eye-hand coordination, and burn energy before coming home. Snack time is part of both schooling options as well so children do not get distracted and cranky because their stomachs are rumbling.

How They’re Different

Children enter preschool between the ages of 1 and 4, and they start pre-kindergarten between 4 and 5. As a result, these programs contain distinct differences tailored to the needs and abilities of children in each age group.

Although preschool may include school-readiness activities, most activities are based around play, such as assorted games and craft projects. They help children learn about teamwork, sharing, and listening, in addition to focusing on basic school concepts such as numbers and letters. And because preschool functions as a daycare of sorts, it includes naptime.

Unlike preschool, pre-kindergarten features a learning structure similar to what children will experience in kindergarten. The curriculum focuses less on play-based activities and more on introductions to reading, language and vocabulary, math, science, music, and art. There’s still an emphasis on teamwork and problem solving, but the classes are longer, with the children generally ready to work in a naptime-free classroom setting.

Whether it’s time for your child to enter a preschool or pre-kindergarten program, contact Guilford Child Development. The early childhood development center in Greensboro, NC, has served the community since 1967, providing over 5,000 families a year with services that encourage children to learn and grow. Call (336) 887-8224 today with questions or review program information online. Get the latest child education news and tips on Twitter.