Often times parents think about their child’s preschool journey in terms of literacy, math, science and other factors of academic growth. However, at OC Kids Infant and Preschool our Garden Grove Preschool, we know socialization is one of the most important areas for young children’s growth and learning development. Working closely with other young children in their class and socializing collaboratively on projects or in play activities, offers children opportunities for not only academic growth but social, emotional and cognitive growth. Let’s take a closer look at the many ways social interactions can be vital in a child’s Preschool journey.
Development of Social Skills
It is not surprising that the number one skill gained from group socialization is growth in a child’s over social skills. Group projects and activities working together allow for children discuss, collaborate, and gain cognitive skills. Young children working in a group learn to navigate social issues with peers as well as they get older, such as conflict resolution, negotiation, and can even gain perspective of peers with proper guidance. Opportunities such as these build the child’s empathy and emotional intelligence, which are vital skills as they grow up. For example, a small group of children might be trying to solve a building problem and arguing over which block to use, children who are old enough might discuss enough to come to an agreement or a teacher can step in to give guidance but still ask the children how and why they should choose which block etc. A small altercation seems minute to us but, children are learning far more than we know for these small social interactions. Increased social interaction also builds vocabulary, grammar, and advanced sentence structure.
Enhanced Cognitive Development
At our Garden Grove Preschool we understand that when preschoolers work cooperatively it fosters improved critical thinking, problem solving, , and decision making. Preschool teachers often plan activities in small and large group, unlike Montessori’s which rarely have large group activities, but these group learning exercises give children a range of ideas and viewpoints. The more ideas the children are privy to, the more options to have to try out, and they more they will learn! Working cooperatively together allows children to listen to others, as well as explain their viewpoint which is helpful in the learning process of whatever concept they are working on. For example, a group might be playing house and deciding who will play which role in the family, different children may share different reasons for why they want to be whatever role, pet, etc. then children can listen, and adjust accordingly.
Cultural Awareness and Diversity
Working in a group exposes preschool children to different backgrounds and a variety of perspectives. In a classroom full of different cultures, children will also be exposed to a variety different children with a variety of backgrounds, language skills, difference experiences etc. Preschools that promote diversity and inclusivity in their student body create an environment where children are encouraged to respect and embrace peers. Learning to work with others of various backgrounds and perspectives promotes patience, tolerance, and an understanding for others. Starting a child’s learning journey in a diverse atmosphere builds a strong foundation for their future to be a compassionate and open minded individual. At
OC Kids Infant & Preschool
, a Montessori in Garden Grove, we pride ourselves on having a diverse staff, curriculum, and classroom environment as cultural awareness, acceptance, and community is very important to us.Improved Academic Achievement
Group lessons vastly enhance children’s academic performance. Preschoolers who work in peer groups often tend to retain information better, as they process the information as a collective group. The discussion amongst the children and social interactions help to cement the information they discuss and work together. Working in a group also gives children more opportunities to observe more problem solving as their peers also hypothesize and try various solutions, which can help to solidify learning the subject matter. Our Preschool in Garden Grove has served many children over the years and the growth we have witness is immense as our students enter Kindergarten and beyond!
Fostering Independence and Responsibility
Although working as a group does have an emphasis on collaboration, we may not realize it also fosters children’s independence. Even in a group setting at our
Anahiem Montessori
a project or activity each child may be designated or opt to take on a specific role. Young children can take on the role of leader, builder, note taker, etc. different children may feel more comfortable in different roles and working together allows them to grow into that role comfortably. Preschool and Montessori School gives children an opportunity to test our many roles and find their place in the group. Through these interactions children gain confidence and a stronger sense of individuality and responsibility.Building Positive Relationships with Teachers and Peers
Having an open forum for group work promotes community within a classroom. Students at our Anaheim Preschool who participate in group work with peers build better social skills, and positive relationships with their peers and teachers. The open lines of communication make children feel more welcome to share and speak up. When children feel supported and safe they are more confident and more likely to share, learn and grow providing them them a more positive feeling toward school.
Conclusion
Social interaction is vital for overall optimum learning for children during early childhood education and beyond. The impact of peer groups and social interactions is immense at these early stages of learning. These opportunities help build a foundation of strong cognitive growth, sharing, and can increased communication skills. At OC Kids a Garden Grove Montessori, by creating classrooms and a whole curriculum that allows for ample opportunities for children to work closely together we are helping the next generation of learners to be more empathetic in working with others as well as powerful future critical thinkers.
- OC Kids Infant and Preschool is a Preschool Montessori serving Garden Grove, Buena Park, and Anaheim.