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Early Childhood Education
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Early childhood education is the term used in the United States to describe the
educational development of infants and young children prior to starting regular
school and through the first year or two of school. It is considered a critical
stage of growth and development, with significant national resources being
increasingly devoted to this educational level. Early childhood educators are
considered specialists who are specially trained and certified, and the field
has also emerged as a separate research area.
The facilities that provide early childhood education include public and private
kindergartens, elementary schools, day care centers, child care services
(including home services), and charitable organizations such as religious
congregations.
Children usually attend early childhood programs for half a day (generally in
the morning) in the pre-kindergarten age range (3-4). This frequently expands to
a full day for the year immediately preceding school entry. |
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