Choosing a preschool is often seen as just another mandatory, routine task. It is rarely taken seriously, and parents often don’t realize its importance. The criteria for selecting a preschool usually rely on reasons like: “My friend’s child goes there, so it must be good,” or “This preschool is nearby, we can walk our child to school,” or “The fees are lower than others; let’s enrol our child here.”
Really?! A preschool deserves far more consideration than this. This is the place that builds the foundational years of a child’s life. A child spends the initial and most crucial years in a preschool—a true temple of excellence. It plays a significant role in shaping how the child’s future unfolds.
As per research, 90% of a child’s brain develops by the age of five. Babies are born with nearly 100 billion neurons. Here’s how preschool learning helps build neuron connections:
- Repetition of activities:
When a child repeats songs, listens to the same story, or follows a structured routine, it helps make learning automatic. - Multisensory learning:
Neuron connections become stronger when more senses are engaged—visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile. - Play-based learning:
Free play such as building blocks or pretend play enhances imagination, logical reasoning, and critical thinking. - Social interaction:
Interactions with facilitators and peers support social and emotional development. Children learn sharing, communication, and emotional expression. - Positive environment:
A safe, loving, and caring preschool environment creates a lasting impact on a child’s learning journey.
The education landscape is evolving like never before. Many preschools now offer experiential and STEAM-based learning that promotes holistic development. Children are becoming confident learners—both inside and outside the classroom. The right preschool can provide essential exposure. Whether it is stage fright or social anxiety, preschool is the ideal space to overcome these challenges.
The beauty of preschool learning is that it neither needs to be rigid nor tied to a specific board. A preschool can choose a particular approach or a blended curriculum. But how can parents decide which preschool is right for their child? Here are some approaches to help clarify this:
A) Reggio Emilia Approach
Children are viewed as competent, creative, and full of potential. They have rights in the learning process and express themselves in multiple “languages.” The environment is well-designed, open, and natural—acting as a third teacher. The curriculum is project-based and built around children’s interests, with a strong emphasis on collaboration. Teachers, parents, and the community form the ecosystem.
B) Montessori Approach
Children choose activities from thoughtfully prepared materials. The emphasis is on life skills, concentration, and independence. Teachers guide rather than instruct, helping children become self-directed learners.
C) Waldorf Approach
This approach focuses on imagination, nature, and rhythm through play and storytelling. Children engage with natural materials like wood, wool, and silk. Daily routines are predictable, with emphasis on arts, music, and movement.
D) Play-Based Learning
Learning happens through free and structured play. The emphasis is on exploration and curiosity—ideal for children who learn by doing.
E) Inquiry-Based Approach
Children explore topics in depth, with teachers acting as co-investigators. This approach builds critical thinking and communication and is best for children who enjoy experimenting.
F) Traditional Approach
This is more routine-driven and teacher-led, with less free play. There is a stronger focus on worksheets, tracing, reading, and writing. It is suitable for parents looking for early school readiness.
There is no single “best” preschool approach. Much depends on your child’s preferences, the quality of teachers, and your expectations as a parent.
Today, learning is not restricted to four walls. It can happen outdoors, in nature, in sunshine or rain. This matters because children have different learning styles—visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic.
- Visual learners prefer images, diagrams, and demonstrations.
- Auditory learners learn best through listening—stories, discussions, and music.
- Reading/Writing learners prefer text—notes, books, and worksheets.
- Kinesthetic learners learn through movement, hands-on activities, and experiments.
Identifying your child’s learning style is crucial when choosing a preschool.
If parents worry about how their child will be assessed, things have changed there too. We now have Holistic Progress Cards as per the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, instead of traditional report cards. A holistic progress card is a modern, comprehensive report that shows a child’s growth across academics, skills, behaviour, values, physical development, emotional well-being, and co-curricular activities—not just marks. Teachers provide qualitative remarks, highlighting the child’s strengths, areas of improvement, and personalized suggestions.
Ultimately, it’s the journey that matters, not the destination.
A child should wake up happy every morning, excited to go to school—not forced.
As educators, let’s take a pledge to make preschools truly joyful places!
About the Author
Sonal Agrawal is an educationist, storyteller, and published author who blends real-world experiences with heartfelt imagination. Born and brought up in Kolkata, she has spent years shaping young minds as an early childhood educator, trainer, and academic leader. Her debut novel, The Grass Is Greener on My Side, reflects her flair for writing modern, light-hearted tales that resonate with today’s readers. Passionate about creativity and human emotions, Sonal draws inspiration from everyday life, the cities she has lived in, and the people she meets. Her work captures ambition, relationships, and the journey of discovering oneself with honesty and warmth.
