Is PreK crucial?
Pre-school classes are designed to acclimate children socially for the expectations in kindergarten. Social skills such as sharing, taking turns, following directions, sticking to a schedule, learning to say "no," appropriate responses to questions and learning how to function without being disruptive in a classroom are often taught. Some pre-schools begin teaching children their letter sounds and work on colors and primary numbers. Perhaps one of the most effective lessons taught revolve around acceptable social skills and interactions with peers and teachers, as well as working in groups and team work.
It’s not just about the education. It’s also about the socialization and interaction with other children, and getting familiar with the way a classroom works (raising hands, taking turns, scheduled time for snack, story, etc.). PreK classes are likely to be more structured than learning activities at home, which is what they will have to get used to for next year. I love the pre-K program my son is in this year. The program is specifically in tune and designed to give the children the skills they will need to begin kindergarten. They work closely with the public schools in the area to find out exactly what they should be focusing on. Is pre-K an absolute necessity? No. Is it helpful in getting them ready for kindergarten. Absolutely.
