Early learning centers: What to expect

It's a common misconception that early learning centers are the same as daycares. While both provide care for young children, early learning centers offer a more educational environment. Think of it this way: daycare focuses on providing a safe and nurturing space, while a learning center school prioritizes this and preparing your child for future success in school and life. earning centers.

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What is an early learning center?

An early learning center is a specialized child care solution dedicated to fostering a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth. These centers employ highly trained educators who create engaging experiences tailored to each child's unique needs. 

11 benefits of early learning centers

Enrolling your child in an early childhood learning center can have a profound impact on their future. Here's why:

  1. Self-Identity: Children explore their interests, abilities, and personality traits, fostering a solid foundation for personal growth and development. 

  2. Confidence: Through hands-on experiences and supportive guidance from their teachers, children cultivate confidence in their abilities and potential.

  3. Social-Emotional Skills: Children develop essential social and emotional skills, such as empathy, cooperation, and self-regulation.

  4. Creativity: Children engage in a variety of activities and will experience the arts daily — storytelling, coloring, making music, dancing, engaging in dramatic play, and more. 

  5. Wellness Habits: Children have the opportunity to try new foods alongside their peers. Exposure to nutritious foods helps children develop positive habits that contribute to overall well-being. 

  6. Communication and Problem-Solving Skills: Children learn to express their thoughts and ideas clearly while developing strategies for resolving conflicts and challenges.

  7. Fine and Gross Motor Skills: at every age and stage, children refine their motor skills through play and structured activities, promoting physical coordination and balance.

  8. Eagerness to Learn: Children’s natural curiosity leads to exploration and discoveries, and a positive early education experience lays the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.  

  9. Math Concepts: Children are introduced to basic mathematical concepts and skills, developing a strong number sense and problem-solving abilities. 

  10. Early Literacy: Exposure to books, storytime, and language-rich experiences helps children build a strong foundation for reading and writing.

  11. Listening and Vocabulary: Children enhance their listening skills and expand their vocabulary through interactions with peers and adults.

Early learning center vs. daycare: key differences

While there is overlap, an early childhood learning center and daycares have distinct focuses: 

  • Curriculum: An early learning center has curriculum plans made up of engaging learning experiences and the ability to document a child’s developmental progress across multiple learning domains. Daycares often do not offer classroom experiences that follow a child’s curiosity.
  • Staff qualifications: An early learning center typically invests in professional development and training in early childhood education for their teachers. Daycare providers may have a wider range of qualifications.
  • Focus: An early learning center prioritizes cognitive development and academic preparation. Daycare primarily focuses on child care and basic needs.

Every child is unique, and the best child care option depends on your family's needs and preferences. Discover our programs with age-specific support for every stage, from infants to pre-kindergarten. 

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT EARLY LEARNING CENTERS?

What is the purpose of early learning centers?

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An early learning center is a designated program where students are given interesting and exciting educational opportunities. Early learning centers are often filled with art materials, instructional toys, manipulatives, books, and more to help engage and stimulate students’ minds.

Is early learning the same as preschool?

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Early learning extends past preschool, but it certainly includes the preschool years. The term “early learning” is rather broad, and can describe any form of educational program a young child (ages 0 – 8) may experience.

Can I put my 3-year-old in preschool?

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Are you wondering what age a child should go to preschool? Is 3 years old too early? If they turn 4 before a certain point in the school year, are they still eligible to attend? Discuss your child’s birthday and their preschool possibilities with the early learning centers and preschool programs in your area.

What is considered early learning?

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Early learning — or early education — refers to education for children ages 0 – 8. Early learning starts on day one, but an early learning center or a daycare center can help expand your child’s knowledge and offer enriching experiences. 

At what age is kindergarten?

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Typically, a child must be 5 years old by late summer or early fall in order to enroll in kindergarten for the coming school year. The exact cut-off date varies by state, so be sure to check on age requirements in your area.
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Bright Horizons is a United States–based child-care provider and is the largest provider of employer-sponsored child care. Employees looking to become a child care teacher are offered the opportunity to earn an early education degree for free as part of their corporate benefits. Search by zip to find a child care center near you. Bright Horizons Global Headquarters are in Newton, Massachusetts, USA.