Learning ABCs

Learning ABCs are not the most important part of preschool - socialization is. This is true and it's not. Most good parents know that social skills improve the learning environment. Families unconcerned about a child's social behavior are generally not interested in a child's ability to learn, and they don't.

The problem begins in "day care" with a directive from on high that says, "Never say no to a child." That's a poison to a classroom. Therefore, we don't have "classrooms" we have free for alls with the bully bearing arms against the whole school. Teachers are too afraid to say "Stop!"

Social behavior begins with knowing one's limits. A limit is the boundary between being a dignified intelligent person and a wild boar. Children have to learn about boundaries and limits and rules and living as a loving person. It's never been a choice before, but suddenly, we've made it a choice - a bad one.

Before a teacher can teach something of value, the students have to be able to listen. One preschool trait is the inability to let someone else talk. Another is the inability to let another child have a special toy. Another is letting someone take the spot light. These are things we learn through instruction. Letting someone give the right answer even if we know too is problematic for some children. Waiting for someone to spit out the answer is a trial for some children. Add that all together and you need a teacher who will be able to get everyone to be quiet for at least a little while. That means saying no and no often. "It's not your turn; it's Faith's turn." One of the humorous things we say is "Muzzle!" That means remember it's not your turn to talk.

Kids are funny. They want to do it right. They want to understand, and achieving a love for one another helps so much. When I see one child whisper to another, it always makes me smile. I'm not concerned that the whisperee doesn't know; I'm just pleased someone does and is discretely helping out.

Anyway, here's an article from Education News about learning which is more important.


Education News
Character Important for Preschoolers

Jan 15, 2006

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, United States (UPI) -- Learning numbers and ABCs are not the most important lessons young children should master before heading off to preschool, a report finds.

Parents who focus too much on academic and technical skills like number and letter recognition in preschool-aged children may inadvertently be overlooking the fundamental building blocks toddlers need to get along with others and do well in school, Horizon Research Corporation found in a national survey of 350 preschool teachers.

Eighty percent of the preschool teachers surveyed said parents need support and guidance when it comes to learning how their children develop, and many are overemphasizing scholastic skills vs. social development.

The teachers indicated that parents who support their children`s verbal communications, ability to follow directions and participate in group activities will help their children get the most out of preschool and will help cut down on behavioral problems inside the classroom and out.