Did you know that play-based learning programs can help toddlers to develop social and literacy skills, build confidence, and become more creative?

If it is time for you to find an early learning program for your toddler, it can be difficult to know which types of child care centers will be best for their needs

This is because there are many types of early learning programs for toddlers. To help you understand the differences between play-based and learning-based programs for toddlers, we have written a guide.

Academic Preschools: What You Need to Know

Most academic preschools aim to help toddlers to prepare themselves for school. This is a type of early learning program for toddlers that tend to have teacher-led classrooms.

Staff and teachers will help children to understand what it’s like to follow a tightly structured curriculum. They also might teach basic math, reading, and writing concepts.

It is common for teachers to present lessons to their classes. But these lessons tend to be very short. They are also highly interactive.

Even though these types of toddler programs are structured, they will also allow for unstructured time. Youth will have time for playing indoors and outdoors.

If you are not sure whether an academic preschool is right for your toddler’s needs, it is a good idea to know the top questions to ask before choosing a preschool.

Play-Based Preschools: What You Need to Know

Play-based preschools tend to be less structured than academic preschools. If you enroll your toddler in one of these schools, she or he will be freer to move around.

Children also have more freedom to choose what activities they want to participate in and which peers to play with.

You should consider enrolling your child in a play-based school if you want him or her to play lots of games, get to know new peers, and engage in imaginative activities.

Most play-based schools do not offer very much instruction. But it is possible that toddlers will learn basic language and science skills. These lessons tend to be shorter than ten minutes.

It is also common for play-based schools to organize daily arts and crafts activities. Classrooms are often broken into several different areas that change often.

For example, it is possible that play-based learning classrooms will have a kitchen area, a dress-up area, and an arts and crafts area.

You should enroll your child in a play-based school if you believe that the best way for toddlers to learn is by playing.

Play- and Academic-Based Programs for Toddlers

If you’ve been trying to figure out the difference between play- and academic-based programs for toddlers, it is important to understand that they are both great options if you want to prepare your child for going to school.

Are you looking for a child care center for your toddler? If so, you should consider enrolling your child in the Grow With Us Learning Academy. Don’t hesitate to contact us once you are ready to get started.