Early Childhood Education and Philosophy

Young children are basically curious by nature. This curiosity leads to attainment of knowledge. Whenever a child is given a new toy, He/She show keen interest and want to explore it. However I do not readily agree with John Lockes’s belief that children’s minds are like ‘empty states’. I believe that children are born with certain characteristics and at times they may be inherited. This is the reason that at times there is a remarkable similarity in the nature of parent and their child. But then each child is different and has his/her own individual personality. This can be the reason why two children born to the same parent may possess completely different personalities. I believe that children are active learners. Fried rich Froebel and John Dewey emphasized the role of play in a child’s learning. As parents and teachers we will all agree with the fact that children are naturally drawn towards playful activities which provide them both pleasure and learning. In the early years of childhood we cannot expect the children to be given abstract knowledge. They need active learning with concrete objects. They learn best by doing. Therefore it is best to provide a stimulating environment where every child gets an opportunity to explore and experience. I also believe that nature is the best teacher and therefore children should be provided learning experiences in close relationship with nature. This will allow a child to use senses to explore and experiment.

As we all know there is maximum development of brain during the early years. A teacher has to be a guide and facilitator providing child with a sense of belonging ness and safety. At Seth Anandram Jaipuria School the teachers work in close cooperation with parents to ensure maximum learning in a positive manner. These are the formative years of life and habits formed may persist throughout the life. Teachers closely observe whether a child has achieved developmental milestones or there is a need for early intervention. If required the child and parents are given counseling sessions by the school counselor or special educator. Teachers and parents should always motivate children and provide positive reinforcement. Children should be engaged in hands-on activities to teach them a variety of concepts. The early childhood curriculum at our school is child-centric meeting needs of every individual child. A stimulating environment is provided where children use their senses to achieve real-life experiences. Children having a healthy body and a healthy mind can contribute towards building a better society.