Nursery school is a magical and transformative stage in a child’s life. It’s a time when young minds are like sponges, absorbing knowledge, building relationships, and developing essential life skills. Here, we delve into the experience of nursery and primary school in Qatar, where the mantra is “play, learn, and grow.”
Play: The foundation of learning:
Play is at the heart of nursery school education. It’s the medium through which children explore the world around them. Whether it’s building with blocks, pretending in the dramatic play area, or engaging in sensory activities like finger painting, play is the vehicle for learning.
Imaginative play: Children often engage in imaginative play, creating scenarios, and stories with dolls, action figures, and playsets. This fosters creativity and storytelling skills.
Social play: Playtime is when children learn essential social skills. They practice sharing, taking turns, and resolving conflicts, setting the stage for positive social interactions.
Motor skills development: Physical play, both indoors and outdoors, promotes gross and fine motor skills development. Activities like climbing, running, and drawing all contribute to physical coordination and dexterity.
Learn: Early education begins:
Nursery school introduces structured learning experiences, preparing children for the academic journey ahead. Learning takes place in various forms:
Early literacy: Through storytelling, reading books, and singing songs, children develop language skills, vocabulary, and a love for reading.
Early numeracy: Basic math concepts like counting, sorting, and recognizing shapes and patterns are introduced through hands-on activities.
Science and exploration: Simple science experiments and nature exploration encourage curiosity and an early interest in the world around them.
Art and creativity: Creative expression is nurtured through art projects, allowing children to experiment with colors, textures, and materials.
Grow: Development beyond academics:
Social and emotional growth: Building relationships with peers and teachers, understanding and expressing emotions, and developing empathy are vital aspects of social-emotional growth.
Independence: Nursery school encourages children to take on tasks independently, from dressing themselves to tidying up after play.
The nursery school experience is a pivotal time in a child’s life. It’s a period of play, learning, and growth that lays the foundation for future academic success and personal development. With the right balance of play-based learning, structured education, and nurturing guidance, nursery school sets the stage for a lifetime of curiosity, exploration, and achievement.
