I think as new parents we tend to begin to stress out around...the day after our child is born...if they are "preforming" like other children around us. It starts out with whose child sleeps and eats the best and whose child crawls and walks and talks first, and then next thing you know you're stressing out because so-and-so's kid can already read...oh and they're 3.
If you feel the need to check off items on a list, here is your list, but if you want to think outside that box for a moment read on...
It's hard to understand balance. You want to educate them and offer opportunities, but you don't want to take away their childhood.
If I had to summarize this post, I'd say...
Just breathe. Love. Play. Enjoy. Show them the world. Don't stress.
Currently, I have a 6,4, and 2 year old. I only really focus on officially schooling my 6 year old for now. Every child has different abilities and desires. Every child, parent, and family is different of course, but for us this just currently works. I didn't start "teaching" Nation [my oldest] until he was 5 and starting Kindergarten.
Solomon just turned 4 and as a middle child, isn't particularly interested in school work yet. However, don't let his lack of desire fool you, this kid has picked up much more than I ever realized from listening to Nation learn. Well...between that and Disney Junior shows and Educational DVD's in the car, ha.
Even my 2 year old, Moses, can count to almost 20 and sing his ABC's [of course missing a few numbers and letters along the way] and it's not because I've drilled flash cards with him--- but because he lives in an atmosphere of education. We are constantly teaching our kids, even if not on purpose.
I believe the Lord did give me my children, and that is what qualifies me to teach them. Not a degree, or certification. There is plenty I don't know, but it's fun to learn along with my children, and lean on Christ when it's not so fun.
I agree with the article, I think what Preschool and Pre-K students need most is to be around their parents as much as possible & to learn about Jesus. I know this isn't always an option for everyone or even a preference, and there is no judgement, every family is different. It's just what I think works best...especially for us.
I think young children should be allowed to be a child: explore--make messes--be curious--get lost in a project--no forced [even to the point of tears] to learn. Introduce things, sure, if there is desire and curiosity...keep going. If all else fails...Read, Read, Read to them. Something I wasn't the best at, but now see the significance in. And if that fails...Play, Play, Play with them.
Education products and toys for their age:
Craft and education ideas:
I don't have a full list for you now, but there are lots of great sites for gleaning FREE ideas for kiddos to teach them without buying a curriculum. Honestly, you don't need one until they are older anyways. Here is a few I can think of off the top of my head that have great ideas and printables, etc.
Websites:
http://www.1plus1plus1equals1.net/
http://www.confessionsofahomeschooler.com/
http://preschoolersandpeace.com/preschoolers-and-peace-ebook/
Above all else, I'd suggest you...
build Godly character in them [sharing, responsibility, thankfulness, service, etc] and focus on having fun, reading, exploring, and playing.
There are lots of books out there that show the most amazing human beings weren't textbook feed. They were saturated by fellowship with family & friends, and encouraged to get outside and get dirty. They were given opportunities to feel, touch, see, experience--- be curious about the world.
They were read to a lot. They were free to really experience life, not just hear and test on it. Especially with younger children, this is not the time, in my opinion, to worry about "can they write their name?" "can they count to 20?" blah blah blah. Will they eventually learn that? Sure!
But what a shame to have a naughty brat, who doesn't know their parents or the Lord well, who is lazy when it comes to reading or investigating but excels on paper with A's. What a waste. God wants our children to be fully alive in Him, and for now, you are the closest picture of God to them. You are the closest, most tangible piece of Jesus. Make their brains go wild with wonder. Don't shove papers and pencil in front of them yet. They will have the next 20 years to learn that way.
