One area fraught with myths is the comparison between preschools and early education centres. Let’s unravel these misconceptions and shed light on the reality of early education.
Myth: Children who attend preschools receive a better education than those in early education centres.
Fact: Both preschools and early education centres adhere to the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), offering quality education.
Myth: Early education centres only focus on play, neglecting learning.
Fact: Research confirms that play-based learning in early education centres enhances cognitive, social and emotional development, forming a robust foundation for education.
Myth: Staff at preschools are more qualified than those at early education centres.
Fact: Both types of facilities must meet the same minimum qualification requirements, ensuring competent staff in both settings.
Myth: Preschools better prepare children for school.
Fact: Early education centres provide tailored school transition programs, equipping children with essential skills for a seamless transition to formal schooling.
Myth: Preschools are government-subsidised, but early education centres are not.
Fact: Government subsidies are available for both, ensuring accessibility to quality early childhood education.
Myth: Early education centres are merely babysitting services.
Fact: Early education centres are purposefully designed to foster learning and development, offering structured experiences tailored to children’s needs.
Myth: Early education centres are solely for working parents who need childcare.
Fact: These centres offer comprehensive educational programs, catering to the developmental needs of all children, regardless of parental employment status.
Myth: Early education centres offer no benefits beyond traditional preschools.
Fact: Early education centres like St Nicholas offer unique advantages such as extended hours, care for infants as young as 8 weeks, and operational consistency during school holidays.
Myth: Preschools have better partnerships and transition programs with schools.
Fact: Early education centres like St Nicholas have dedicated partnerships and transition programs with schools. At St Nicholas, families can also enjoy greater priority enrolment at Catholic schools.
