Since the pandemic brought online and distance learning to the forefront of the education industry, child-centered education has become a term you may have heard.

Unlike other models of education that teach from a prescribed curriculum using specific methods, child-centered education is a more holistic approach.

But what does that really mean, and what are the benefits of child-centered education? Let’s find out.

What Does Child-Centered Education Mean?

Child-centered education is sometimes referred to as child-led education. It is designed to develop a child’s social and individual aspects rather than teaching generalized information. The traditional way of educating starts by building a one-size-fits-all type of curriculum with one teacher to instruct all areas. But child-centered education is the opposite.

Rather than starting with the curriculum, it starts with the child. Often, it begins by identifying what a child is most interested in by allowing them to explore and play. Educators then develop lessons and activities to match a child’s interest and learning style. In this model, teachers serve more as facilitators of learning.

This method acknowledges and incorporates other needs into the curriculum. Child-centered education works well because it allows flexibility and can work with each individual learning style. One of the primary benefits of child-centered education is that it provides kids a choice in what they learn.

Learning Becomes Fun

Part of the reason early education is so impactful is that the formative years of childhood are when kids are most flexible. At this stage, neural pathways are forming each second.

Implementing child-led education capitalizes on this brain development while allowing children to learn through play. When they are interested in what they are learning, it makes learning fun for all.

Every Environment Becomes A Learning Environment

Children are natural explorers. They are encouraged to explore, experiment, and ask questions in child-centered classrooms. Children are actively engaged in their own learning, no matter where they are. This type of environment allows kids to learn more at their own pace and is especially beneficial for struggling learners who may need more time to master a concept.

Hands-On Materials And Activities

Because every environment can be a learning environment, child-led classrooms often use hands-on materials and activities. These materials help to engage children’s natural curiosity and provide a means for them to explore new ideas.

Develops Confidence

This type of learning environment helps children feel comfortable with learning, which means they can experience positive reinforcement instead of negative reinforcement.

Unlike traditional methods of education, where there are always right or wrong answers, child-led learning allows children to focus on learning through discovery. Since this creates a more relaxed environment. It’s easier for children to learn lifelong skills like decision making which, over time, develops confidence and self-esteem.

Child-Centered Education In South Florida

Our mission at JLP Inspiring Minds is to create and provide a community of learning that supports children’s needs academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. We are committed to providing the best care and education to help your child reach their fullest potential.

We provide preschool, K-3 private school, and daycare. For older children, we invite you to check out our other childcare facility, All Sports Kids.

Learn more about our child-centered education curriculum and start your enrollment today.  With two locations for preschool and K-3 school, we know we’ll have something to fit the whole family. Give us a call at 954-746-5437 or visit us online to learn more.