Blog I Child Development I International School I Haut-Lac

WHY START SCHOOL AT 3 YEARS OLD?

Written by Murielle Omphalius | 13 May 2024

The decision-making process regarding our children's education can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing between nursery school and infant school. While both options have their merits, there are compelling reasons why enrolling a 3-year-old child in the educational structure of an infant school can offer numerous advantages over an extra year in nursery school.

IN FRENCH

The Haut-Lac Infant school is designed specifically for children aged 3 to 6. It provides a structured learning environment tailored to the developmental needs of young learners.

Here are some key benefits to consider:

 

Early Socialization and Peer Interaction: Our Infant school offers ample opportunities for children to interact with peers of similar ages. At 3 years old, children are at a crucial stage of social development, and exposure to a diverse range of peers in an educational setting can foster valuable social skills such as cooperation, empathy and conflict resolution.

 

 

Structured Learning Activities: Our Infant school follows a structured curriculum that introduces basic concepts in numeracy, literacy, and other foundational subjects through play-based activities. By engaging in age-appropriate learning experiences, children develop cognitive skills, language abilities, and a love for learning that can set a strong foundation for future academic success.

 

Qualified Early Childhood Educators: Our Infant school employs trained early childhood educators who understand the unique needs of young children. These professionals create a nurturing environment where children feel supported and encouraged to explore, ask questions, and express themselves creatively. Their expertise ensures that learning experiences are developmentally appropriate and tailored to each child's individual needs.

 

 

Bilingual Immersion Education: Enrolling your 3-year-old child in the bilingual educational structure at Haut-Lac Infant School offers a wealth of benefits that can enrich their early development in profound ways.

At this critical age, children are uniquely primed for language acquisition, and exposure to both French and English in a dedicated educational environment provides invaluable linguistic advantages. Haut-Lac's bilingual approach not only cultivates fluency in both languages but also fosters cognitive flexibility, cultural awareness, and enhanced problem-solving skills.

Moreover, the nurturing and supportive atmosphere of Haut-Lac ensures that children feel confident and motivated to explore, communicate, and engage with peers in both languages, laying a solid foundation for academic success and global citizenship from the earliest years.

 

Preparation for Formal Education: Enrolling in our infant school at 3 years old provides valuable preparation for the transition to formal schooling. Children become familiar with routines, classroom etiquette, and basic academic concepts, easing the transition to primary school when the time comes.

Early exposure to a structured learning environment can also help alleviate separation anxiety and build confidence in independent learning.

 

 

Holistic Development: Beyond academic skills, Haut-Lac Infant School focuses on fostering holistic development in young children. Through a balanced curriculum that includes arts, physical education, and personal, social and emotional development, children are able to explore their interests, develop creativity, and build essential life skills that contribute to their overall well-being.

 

Parental Involvement and Support: Our infant school encourages parental involvement through regular communication, parent workshops, and opportunities to participate in school activities.

Parents play a vital role in their child's educational journey, and being part of the school community allows them to support their child's learning and development effectively.

 

While nursery school can also offer valuable experiences for 3-year-olds, the structured educational environment of an infant school provides distinct advantages in terms of social, cognitive and emotional development. By enrolling your child at Haut-Lac Infant School from 3 years old, you're investing in their future and laying the groundwork for a lifetime of learning success.

 

 

In short, the decision to start school at 3 transcends mere convention; it represents a strategic investment in children's holistic development. By prioritising experiential learning and bilingual education, Haut-Lac School equips students with the skills and mindset necessary for success in an ever-evolving global landscape.

At Haut-Lac, we are steadfast in our commitment to providing a nurturing educational environment that fosters curiosity, inquiry and lifelong learning. Through personalised instruction and a supportive community, we aim to inspire each child to reach their full potential.

Renaud Milhoux
Haut-Lac Head of Nursery, Infant & Primary