Approaches to Early Childhood Education

There are many good preschools in St. Petersburg, each with its own style and approach to learning. When you are looking for the preschools that are best for your children, it is important to choose the programs that most closely align with your personal belief system. Although there are many different learning approaches taken by preschools, some of the most common are Montessori, Waldorf, and the Reggio Emilia approach. One way to prepare yourself in your search for the right preschool is by becoming familiar with the general philosophy of each of these methodologies.

Preschools that use the Montessori approach should mostly focus on establishing independence and confidence and allowing the child to learn at his or her own pace. Often, teachers in preschools in St. Petersburg that embody this philosophy will be referred to as guides. These guides concentrate on working with each child individually to awaken their spirit and creativity as well as foster independence in observing and analyzing ideas. This school of thought should help children gain self-esteem and self-determination so that they may become courteous and highly-contributing members of society. Children who are delayed as well as those who are gifted can benefit greatly from the individual attention that is given in preschools in St. Petersburg which use the Montessori approach.

Another common method of teaching is the Waldorf method. Preschools in St. Petersburg that embody the Waldorf method focus on the necessity of stability and tranquility in a child's life. In order to accurately teach with this method preschools in St. Petersburg should have very little turnover because they recognize a child's need for trust and understanding from a teacher who knows him or her well. The Waldorf method also promotes a homelike, natural atmosphere by encouraging teamwork and togetherness.

Reggio Emilia preschools in St. Petersburg are somewhat less common, although they are widely acclaimed for their imaginative and creative ways of teaching. Preschools in St. Petersburg that follow the Reggio Emilia school of thought encourage teachers and students to work in groups and teams. During play-time, teachers intently observe, photograph and video record students in action. They then use their observations as the basis for extensive lessons. Art and creativity is very important in the Reggio Emilia philosophy; children are encouraged to create their own crafts and works of art using various media. This is designed to help them rise above conventionality and think outside of the box.

These three approaches to early childhood education are widely varied and are only some of the contemporary takes on successful preschool learning. When you are looking for a preschool for your child, carefully observe and learn about the methods that will be used to teach. If you are not prepared to support the method in your home life, it may not be the right school for you.

Preschools in St. Petersburg