picture by Uriel 1998
Some parents are fearful that if they do not send their children to preschool that they will not learn the skills (or the discipline) to attend kindergarten. While good preschools can teach your children valuable skills, these skills can also be learned at home. Some parents do not have the option of homeschooling their preschoolers due to work demands, but those that do might want to take a second look.
Terrie Lynn Bittner has written an excellent article outlining the pros and cons of homeschooling your preschooler. She lists arguments in favor of preschooling including, socialization skills, academic training and school-related skills.
However, she has a longer list of arguments against preschool. Terrie states:
“It is only in the recent generation that preschool has become nearly mandatory,largely corresponding to the numbers of children in daycare.”
Terrie makes that case that the skills taught in any preschool are very easy to teach at home and parents know what their children need best. Some parents feel that their children need preschool just for the socialization and then find that their children are learning inappropriate behavior. Instead, some parents are finding play groups for their children to increase socialization and at the same time are there to reinforce positive behavior and stifle negative behavior.
Terrie’s article also lists methods of teaching preschool in the home and how to create a stimulating home environment.
I used to work full time outside the home. My two daughters were both in daycare and they did well there. After my youngest son was born, I decided to stay home full time. I had him enrolled, during the day, in a some small classes at the gym (swimming, sports) where in a short amount of time he learned socialization and listening skills. I then enrolled him in a home-based preschool, one in which the parents take turn teaching and helping. There he learned art skills and some academic skills (shapes, numbers, etc). The rest I did at home. I probably spent less than 20 minutes a day with him on reading and math. He just entered kindergarten and can read and do simple math. While regular preschools have good intentions, the attention paid to each student can be minimal. One-on-one time with your child can increase the amount they learn in a very little time.
If you are interested in homeschooling for preschool, Terrie’s article is well worth the read.
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