The severe learning crisis in our country presently, is also the result of schools and pre-schools working in isolation to the family and larger community. Things like selfishness, apathy or even lack of basic civic sense in many kids these days is the manifestation of the loopholes in our present education system that validates this learning crisis. To defeat these crises, it is imperative that schools work in nexus with the family & the community.

   Family & parental participation in early childhood education is of paramount importance. Parents involvement is much needed for the child’s learning through cognition. Parents need to engage personally in their child’s education apart from only child care, as it has a positive impact on kids’ understanding & grasping capabilities. When it comes to increasing the competence of the child & building her or his confidence, the family has an even bigger role to play. These happen at a much faster pace at home, as the baby is more comfortable with her mummy or daddy than her teacher.

 Community also holds a lot of significance in early childhood education. Civic sense, ethics & empathy are important components of good education. These have to be inculcated in kids from a very tender age. Community & volunteer participation in collaboration with pre-schools would be an amazing idea. It is during the pre-schooling years, that philanthropy can be ingrained in toddlers by nellai seo community initiatives similar to the NSS (National Service Scheme) at the higher education level. Another essentiality of the larger community in the early education of children is, when it comes to their transition from pre-schooling to regular schooling. Hence, strong community roles enhance smooth & problem-free transition. Children find it easier to get acclimatized to the new environment & adjustment to it happens faster.

By YUMNA MOBIN