| Early childhood education is the foundation of learning | | | | preschool age is appropriate. Keep supplies such as |
| in the first part of a child's life, also known as the | | | | hand washing soap and towels, clothes and toy |
| formative years. This is generally from birth to age | | | | baskets within easy reach. |
| eight. The formative years are the most vulnerable | | | | 3. Being part of the household, means taking |
| times as this is the time when the character is | | | | responsibility - a valuable characteristic for everyone |
| formed. What a child learns and experiences between | | | | to know. Teach the child to make a valuable |
| birth and eight, will make or break his or her | | | | contribution to the household by letting him or her |
| confidence. ECD teachers can help to build a child | | | | feed the dog, drying dishes, or doing other age |
| with a strong character that will adjust easily to all | | | | appropriate tasks. Children tend to argue about taking |
| situations in life. It is important to cultivate a positive | | | | turns to do chores. You may consider using a chore |
| self-esteem at home and at school alike, using the | | | | chart that keeps a tally as to who did what last. |
| following tips. | | | | 4. Give children individual attention. Spend at least a |
| 1. Unconditional love helps a child to feel secure in the | | | | few minutes every day with each child during |
| knowledge that they are loved, even when they | | | | routines and activities. Show that you are interested |
| mess up. This creates a safe place for the child to | | | | in what the child has to say and ask him or her |
| venture out and try new things. Remember to praise | | | | questions. Let them know that their thoughts and |
| the child for successful achievements and encourage | | | | opinions are important to you. |
| new challenges that will teach valuable skills. The | | | | 5. When kids tease each other, react by pointing out |
| more encouragement you give, the more the children | | | | similarities and differences. Perhaps refer to a famous |
| will try new things on their own. | | | | person who was also short, had red hair or freckles. |
| 2. Learning basic life skills helps a child develop a | | | | It is important that they feel accepted, no matter |
| positive self-esteem. Teach the child basics such as | | | | what their failures or shortcomings. Point out one of |
| dressing by themselves, tying shoe laces and tidying | | | | their advanced skills or characteristics. |
| up his or her own toys when he or she is at | | | | |