As new or first time parents with fast-growing toddlers, the question of education eventually becomes a pressing issue.
Most parents just go with the crowd, sending their kids off for formal learning as soon as they are able to walk and talk.
Any age before 7 years old is generally a good enough age to send your kids off to kindergarten.
But perhaps there are other factors to take into consideration.
Kindergarten Education in Malaysia
Unlike primary and secondary education, pre-school or kindergarten is not compulsory.
However, it is normally expected for parents to prepare their kids emotionally, physically and above all mentally for this new chapter in their lives.
Most parents however get bogged down by the terms pre-school and kindergarten.
Some send their kids to both, others only either or. However, most kindergarten in Malaysia combine both pre-school and kindergarten ages only because it’s more convenient.
A child typically only spends a year or so in pre-school before being of kindergarten age.
Pre-school age is between 3 to 4 years old and kindergarten age is between 5 to 6.
However, the biggest difference it seems that educators agree on is that pre-school involves more play and less learning. While kindergarten involves more learning than play.
But the question remains: what’s the best age to send your kids off to kindergarten.
The Best Kindergarten Age
Readiness
Contrary to popular belief, age doesn’t define maturity. It is the same for kids as it is for adults.
Some younger kids are absolutely fine with going to kindergarten. Whereas some older kids have terrible separation anxiety and are not fit at all for kindergarten.
The most important factor is your child’s readiness for kindergarten.
This includes their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Some signs of readiness may include the ability to follow directions, communicate effectively, use the toilet independently, and engage in basic problem-solving.
So it’s important for parents to actually prepare their kids sufficiently before thrusting them into an unfamiliar place and hope that they teachers have it all figured out. Remember, teachers have their own jobs to do and won’t have time to babysit each and every child.
Moreover, if your child is crying or throwing tantrums.
So a good way to prepare your kids for kindergarten is to let them spend time at different relatives’ house, or even a daycare for a few hours a day and slowly building up their tolerance for being comfortable in new places.
Preschool Experience
As mentioned, some parents choose to send their kids to preschool first before kindergarten.
Due to their priority for play instead of learn, pre-school allows kids to adapt in an environment away from parents in a less stressful way. Without the pressure of learning.
Perhaps for some kids, thrusting them immediately into a place full of strangers where they are being told to do things can be too overwhelming.
Especially if they’ve led particularly sheltered lives without frequent exposure to other kids or adults.
This is why some children benefit from attending a preschool program before starting kindergarten.
Preschool can provide opportunities for socialisation, learning basic skills, and becoming more accustomed to a classroom environment.
Consult with Educators
Another trick that a parent can try is to talk to kindergarten and pre-school teachers.
This can help them not only understand if their child is ready for school, but also what the curriculums are for those two different types of schools.
It’s important to note that unlike public schools, pre-schools (which includes kindergartens) are not heavily regulated by the government.
So no pre-school is created equal. They each may have their own specific teaching styles, childcare philosophies and activities. Be sure these align with your own before you register your kids.
Talk to preschool teachers, educators, and other professionals who have experience with child development and kindergarten readiness.
They can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your child’s specific situation.
Let’s Get Your Kids Kindergarten Ready
Ultimately, the decision should be made with the best interests of your child in mind.
Starting kindergarten is a significant milestone, and it’s important to consider their physical and emotional readiness to ensure a positive and successful transition to school.
If you have concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to consult with educators and professionals who can provide guidance based on your child’s unique needs and circumstances.
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