How to Choose the Best Nursery School For FS1 And FS2
Introduction to Choosing a Nursery School in Dubai
Choosing a Nursery School in Dubai begins with Early Years Foundation Stages 1 & 2 which are part of the EYFS curriculum. However they are not compulsory stages if you reside in Dubai, but compulsory education starts at age 6. Studies show that children who attend the FS1 & FS2 stages of preschool have an advantage over those who have not attended any kind of childcare facility, pre-nursery, or nursery schools.
FS 1 is generally meant for children who are about 3 years old while FS2 is for children between the ages of 4 – 5. Once the children have graduated FS2, they can transition to regular schools for their primary education.
Choosing a nursery school in Dubai What Do Children Learn in FS1 and FS2 Stages?
The focus of the FS1 curriculum mainly revolves around development of social skills including the most crucial Potty Training. This includes social and emotional development, language and communication, and physical development especially those of fine motor skills to strengthen the fingers and hands so writing becomes easier. The children are taught letters and number recognition, color differentiation, sound, and phonic skills.
In FS2 the curriculum is expanded to include basic reading and writing. Joining together words to form short sentences, learning to pronounce words, and using numbers up to 20. They are also introduced to a little bit of geography and environment so they are aware of their world. Children are also encouraged in self-expression, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
As you can see, the FS1 and FS2 stages teach the children essential skills that they require when they enter primary school. Hence, a child should attend a school that offers FS1 and FS2 of EYFS.
The next question to be answered in Choosing a nursery school in Dubai – is it preferable to send your children to a nursery school; or can they be home taught?
Homeschooling vs EYFS Centres or Nursery schools
Both homeschooling, as well as EYFS Centers or Nurseries, have their pros and cons.
Choosing a Nursery School in Dubai /EYFS childcare centres
Children are in a more formal setup compared with Daycare and Home care forcing them to adapt and learn the rules of a structured environment.
There are other children, teachers, and caregivers around and the child learns social skills. They have the opportunity to interact with people and create relationships, a crucial skill that’s necessary throughout life.
There are better teaching aids and equipment to give the child the best education possible. The teachers or caregivers are professionals who know the latest teaching methods and employ them to make learning fun and easy.
However, this system too has its cons. While social interaction can often bring about peer pressure which can hamper a child’s growth and self-esteem. A school is only as good as its teachers – so if the teachers are not well trained then the learning may not be ideal.
One of the drawbacks is cost. Certified EYFS Nursery programmes are often more expensive than pre-school alternatives (Daycare or Homeschooling). Location can also play a part, the convenience of nearby facilities for easy drop off and collection.
Busy parents may have to prioritise how close their nearest pre-school facility is, especially those living in rural areas. If transportation is a challenge then opting for a local Daycare or even Home care maybe their only solution.
Choosing a Nursery School in Dubai For FS1 And FS2
The first thing to do when choosing a nursery school in Dubai is to know your child and know what makes them happy and motivated. This will, eventually, help them to adjust well to school and do well academically.
Now let us examine the things you should take into consideration while choosing the best nursery school you’re your child in Dubai.
Reputation: While it is great to get your child into a reputed school, it is not essential. The reputation of the school has nothing to do with its pedagogy and suitability for your child. Sometimes, reputation is over-hyped and the institution may not deliver what your child needs. So go over all the school has to offer to your child before committing yourself to it.
Cost: EYFS centers can be expensive. However, higher cost doesn’t always mean better education. So no need to put your child into a school that is more than you can afford. Look around for cheaper options, there may be other schools that are better and more cost-effective.
Curriculum: Ask for the curriculum and see if it is suitable for your child. Dubai is a multicultural society and it is important to find out the cultural values of the institution and the people that are a part of it. If you do not pay attention to it, your child could be thrown into an environment that is opposite to what they learn and see at home and may find it difficult to adjust.
Staff: The teachers and the caregivers should be well trained and aware of the latest teaching methods. Also, look at the student-teacher ratio, the lower this is the better it is for your child.
Pedagogy: This is the most important aspect of any school. To find out about it and see if this is how you wish your child to be taught.
Facilities: Check the facilities that are available to your child at school. Whether there is a playground, swimming pool, gym, etc.
Location: The school should ideally be located close to your home or workplace.
Security & Cleanliness: To ensure the safety of your child make sure that the school is clean and focus on hygiene and cleanliness. A child should be safe not only from physical dangers but also from health risks while at school.
If you keep these things in mind and ask the right questions, you should be able to pick the right school for your child where he or she will blossom and be happy.
Conclusion
Choosing a Nursery School in Dubai from a perspective of your child. He or she must find a school where they feel comfortable and happy at. Trial days are a good test to gauge this. The school should be an extension of the social and cultural values that the child learns at home.
Arwa Naccho
CEO
Green Grass Nursery
http://www.dubaifaqs.com/education-dubai.php
https://www.greatschools.org/gk/articles/ten-important-questions-to-ask-preschools/