Preschool is often a child’s first real experience with peer socialization, a fun, yet possibly overwhelming time. Research shows that smaller class sizes with a lower teacher/child ratio are better for young children. What are some benefits of a small preschool class size?
First, children tend to work well as a group and bond closely to one another, which makes for a secure environment. Smaller preschool classes are of benefit to a less-confident child who may get lost in the shuffle of a larger class, and children don’t get sick as often because there are fewer children spreading germs.
Furthermore, smaller class size allows for more hands-on learning, as these activities require more attention from the teacher. These types of classes also offer deeper language development because the teacher can more closely monitor social interaction.
The National Institute for Early Education Research states that: “When groups are smaller, teachers provide more stimulating, responsive, warm and supportive interactions. They also provide more individualized attention, engage in more dialogues with children and spend less time managing children and more time in educational activities.”
Studies also provide evidence of a link between class size and overall quality of the program.
Creation Station Preschool offers class sizes well below the state regulations concerning maximum class size and teacher/child ratios. The two-year-old class allows five children with two teachers; three and four year olds have two teachers with eight children; and Pre-K offers 10 children with two teachers.
Creation Station Preschool is a non-profit ministry in Elverson with a focus on children, not profit. Visit the website at www.CreationStationPreschool.wordpress.com or call 610-286-514 for more information about our programs.
