Head of programme Sirene Lim and lecturer G Kaveri from the department of Early Childhood Education at the S R Nathan School of Human Development at the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), identify five myths about early childhood education.
Attempting to navigate the sea of information available on child development can be overwhelming. Yet, subtle half-truths and half understood assumptions can lead us astray. To help us to support children effectively, experts from SUSS dispel some common myths about child development:
Myth 1: Genes determine our future
Genes are like draft instructions for the development of the brain. But the brain also continues to be refined in response to life experiences. So, holistic development in the early years is more important to children’s later success than their parents’ and guardians’ income or educational attainment.
Myth 2: There are limited time periods for learning to take place
Neurologists have found that very few brain structures require restricted time periods for neural sculpting to occur. After all, the brain is capable of ongoing learning provided that there is motivation to learn.
Myth 3: Play is a waste of time and could pose unnecessary risks
Evidence suggests that active play in the early years not only enhances children’s physical fitness, it also improves their focus. Children need opportunities to take some risks during play so that they will develop enough practice to take greater risks and manage complex decisions in adulthood.
Myth 4: It’s the 21st century! We need new products and technologies to prepare children for the future
Nurturing successful children in today’s world does not require special technology (as implied by edutainment like Baby Einstein or the Mozart Effect). Rather, the brain thrives on human interaction and everyday social experiences. Conversations, stories, gestures, walks, and even helping granny with her grocery bag, are what is key to children’s brain development. Technology plays a supporting role but is no substitute for these experiences.
Myth 5: Children must be taught explicitly how to learn
While select skills require some explicit teaching from adults (e.g., social etiquette), children’s brains are mostly shaped by social interactions and self-initiated exploration. There is no need for adults to be overly-directive or controlling.
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