Why are early years seen as increasingly important?

Early years education plays a pivotal role to a child’s overall development. Research indicates that 90% of a child's brain development occurs before the age of five, highlighting these years as critical for cognitive, social, and emotional growth (1). It is important that early years programs integrate diverse cultural experiences to enhance a child’s understanding and appreciation of different cultures, fostering inclusivity and global awareness. The lessons children learn during these early years — how to interact with others, explore their environment, and solve problems — lay the groundwork for their success in school and beyond.

IB Primary Years Programme (PYP)

At IGBIS, our Early Years programme is rooted in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). This inquiry-based, student-centred curriculum encourages children to explore, question, and connect their learning to the wider world. Through play-based learning, it enables children to follow their natural curiosity and develop a love of learning from an early age. The PYP fosters the holistic development of each child, addressing their academic, social, emotional, and physical growth. This approach prepares them to become compassionate, informed, and active participants in a global community, equipped with the skills essential in today’s interconnected society.

What parents should look for in an early years setting

Particularly for parents balancing work and family life, selecting the right early years setting is a critical decision. A high-quality early years programme should extend beyond academic instruction, providing a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can thrive emotionally and socially. Essential indicators of quality include well-qualified and caring educators, a safe and engaging physical environment, and a curriculum that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and independence.Red flags to watch out for would be high staff turnover, inadequate communication between the school and parents, overly rigid or purely academic-focused curricula, and a lack of transparency in school policies. At IGBIS, we prioritise open communication with families and ensure that our experienced educators create a supportive atmosphere where every child feels valued and understood.

The importance of the physical space for children of this age

Physical environment plays a crucial role in early childhood development. At IGBIS, our Early Years spaces are designed to be engaging, safe, and conducive to learning for our young learners. Our classrooms are bright, spacious, and filled with age-appropriate materials that inspire exploration and creativity.Learning at IGBIS extends beyond the classroom. Our campus features state-of-the-art outdoor spaces that encourage physical activity and connection with nature. Access to outdoor play areas and natural surroundings is vital for young children, as these environments stimulate imagination and foster social interactions, allowing children to learn and grow in a dynamic, natural setting. We believe that children learn best when they feel secure, inspired, and connected to their surroundings.Investing in high-quality early years education is one of the most significant decisions for a parent, as the experiences children have during these formative years profoundly influence their future. A strong early years foundation equips children with the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. We invite you to explore the opportunities IGBIS offers, where your child’s journey towards a bright and unparalleled future begins. For more information about IGBIS, please visit our website at www.igbis.edu.my or visit us on Instagram or Facebook.

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Reference: https://bipartisanpolicy.org/download/?file=/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/C.-1-The-Science-of-Early-Childhood.pdf

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