Month: July 2024

Categories
Preschool

5 Tips for Selecting the Right Preschool Program

Choosing the right preschool program is essential for your child’s educational journey. A good program boosts creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving skills. It also creates a well-structured space that encourages both learning and play, promoting holistic growth. 

In this blog, as the best international preschool, we’ll share 5 tips to help you choose the ideal preschool program for your child. 

What is Preschool and Why is It Important for Your Child? 

Before we delve deeper, let’s understand what exactly is Preschool. It is your child’s first step into the outside world of home. Preschools are designed for children aged 3-5 and prepare them for school. It’s the perfect place to lay the foundation for their educational success. Through fun activities like games, drawing, and music, your child will learn about the world around them and society. A good pre-school program adds a strong solid base for future learning. 

At Vikaasa, we use the Montessori System of Learning, which focuses on children’s natural interests and hands-on learning. This approach encourages independence and views children as eager learners who can initiate learning in a supportive environment. It’s a way for your child to develop real-world skills and thrive in a well-prepared setting. 

Research has revealed that by the time a child reaches 5 years old, their brain has already developed by 90%. This highlights the significance of the preschool years when it comes to early-age learning. Here are a few reasons why enrolling your child in the best international preschool is crucial: 

  • Interaction with peers in preschool helps children learn social norms and values. 
  • Preschools stimulate curiosity and a desire to explore, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
  • Through play and activities, preschools foster creativity and imagination.
  • Structured activities in preschools enhance cognitive skills and critical thinking.
  • Preschools help children acclimate to a school environment, easing the transition to formal schooling.

Tips for Selecting the Right Preschool Program

1. Academic Excellence and Curriculum

When choosing a preschool for your child, it’s important to consider the curriculum they offer. The true magic happens in the classroom through a hands-on, engaging curriculum. You want your child to have an engaging and hands-on learning experience, where they love going to school every day and make clear academic progress. 

Children develop at different paces during the preschool years. So, it’s also important to find a curriculum that caters to each child’s individual needs. Ask the school how they differentiate activities for children with different levels of development as children develop. If early literacy and numeracy are important to you, find out when and how they are taught. 

2. Safety Measures and Learning Environment

Safety is of utmost importance when choosing a preschool for your little ones. The best preschool should have bright and open spaces, with facilities such as drinking fountains, toilets, and sinks easily accessible for your little ones. Other safety measures to look out for include rounded edges, low shelves, and safe storage of toxic chemicals. 

At Vikaasa, we have taken all of these factors into consideration- our bathrooms are designed for smaller kids, everything is as per child height, and our spaces are crafted to inspire their creativity. To further enhance security, we have CCTV cameras placed strategically throughout the premises. You can rest assured that your child will be safe and happy in our preschool.  

3. Teaching Quality

It is vital to choose a preschool where the educators are well-qualified. Their qualifications make a significant difference in how they handle and teach children. Look for educators who have a deep understanding of child development. This will ensure that your child has a valuable learning experience and grows in all areas. Enroll your child in a school that has strict regulations for hiring qualified teachers. 

4. Teacher-Student Ratio

It’s important to consider class sizes when choosing the best international preschool, as it can impact their learning. A teacher can only have limited attention when a class is overcrowded. 

If the class size is large, make sure there is an assistant present who can help manage the class or move between classrooms. This ensures that your child receives the necessary support for a successful learning experience. 

5. Parental Engagement and Communication

For your child’s education to succeed, it’s essential to establish a strong connection and communication between the school and home. Ask how frequently communication takes place throughout the day and year. 

Select a preschool such as Vikaasa, that promotes regular communication between parents and teachers and encourages parents to participate in their child’s learning. A good preschool coordinates with parents to create a consistent learning opportunity between home and school enhancing their development and learning experience. 

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing the right preschool program is a crucial step toward your child’s educational journey. It sets the foundation for their future success and holistic development.

At Vikaasa, we understand the importance of providing a nurturing and enriching environment for your little ones. With our Montessori System of Learning, qualified educators, and focus on academic excellence, we strive to create an ideal preschool experience. Our commitment to safety, small class sizes, and open communication with parents ensures that your child receives the best possible education. 

If you are seeking the best international preschool in Madurai, Vikaasa is the perfect choice to support your child’s growth and learning!

Categories
Curriculum

Why People Choose the IGCSE Curriculum?

In today’s globalised world, advances in communication and digital technology have bridged boundaries between countries. It is imperative that students of today are equipped with the necessary tools that enable them to be future-ready global citizens of the 21st century. To prepare students for success in a globalised world, it is important to look at new ways of teaching and learning. The IGCSE curriculum is a big step in this direction. 

Many parents choose IGCSE for their children, and we think you should consider it too. Let’s explore why IGCSE is the right choice for your child. 

What is the IGCSE Curriculum? 

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is a globally recognized education board developed by the University of Cambridge International Examinations. It offers a two-year program for students aged 14 to 16, specifically for grades 9 and 10. 

The IGCSE curriculum is diverse and covers various subjects. One of the great things about it is that there are no limits to the number of qualifications students can achieve. They also have the freedom to choose their own combination of subjects, allowing for a personalized curriculum. This flexibility makes IGCSE schools a popular choice among parents.

Benefits of Studying in an IGCSE School 

Global Recognition

The IGCSE curriculum offers a globally recognized education that promotes international exposure and uniformity. It prioritizes skill development and creative thinking, making it highly regarded worldwide. This recognition extends to universities and colleges in various countries such as the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and more.

The curriculum focuses on enhancing skills and fostering innovative thinking. This increases student’s eligibility for admission to international high schools and colleges both in India and overseas. 

Diverse, Inclusive, and Specialized Curriculum

IGCSE schools like Vikaasa World School offer a variety of subjects across different fields. Students can select subjects from categories like languages, sciences, mathematics, management, arts, and design. 

The IGCSE curriculum allows them to specialize in subjects that interest them. For example, in the science stream, they can select chemistry, biology, or physics based on their preferences. Similarly, in the management stream, they can opt for subjects such as business studies, English, or environmental management. This allows students to explore a diverse and specialized curriculum that matches their interests, strengths, and career goals.

Strengthens Individual Skills and Strengths

The IGCSE curriculum is like a tailor-made outfit for students. It lets them choose subjects that suit their interests and strengths, making them feel confident and comfortable. It’s like a personal training program that hones skills and builds individual strengths. 

With a mix of core and extended curriculum, students can choose their own challenge level. This creates a sense of ownership over learning. Not only does it reduce stress, but it also prepares students for future studies and careers.

Promotes Logical and Critical Thinking

The IGCSE curriculum encourages students to think critically and solve problems. They are given real-life situations and questions that require them to analyze and find solutions. This helps them develop investigative and inferential skills. They learn to examine data, arguments, evidence, and theories with a logical approach. 

This IGCSE approach trains them to evaluate information, spot strengths and weaknesses, and draw logical conclusions. They learn to think deeply, make sound judgments, and back up their reasoning.

Assessment

IGCSE assessments happen at the course end and cover oral, and written coursework and practical tasks. This variety assists students improve their skills, especially if English is not their first language. The IGCSE assessment aims to help students identify their strengths, weaknesses, and areas of interest, enabling them to plan their future studies. This process builds confidence and boosts student morale. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the IGCSE curriculum for your child is a decision that can pave the way for a future filled with opportunities and success. The IGCSE curriculum at Vikaasa World School stands out as the ideal choice for nurturing your child’s strengths and interests. With our globally recognized education, personalized subject selection, and emphasis on skill development, we offer a unique opportunity for your child’s growth and success.Prepare your child for a world of endless possibilities by choosing Vikaasa World School – the best IGCSE school in Madurai. Apply now and unlock your child’s potential!

Categories
Curriculum

Discovering the Advantages of the Cambridge International Curriculum

If you’re in search of the perfect school for your child, it is very important to decide which curriculum option is best suited to your child’s learning aspirations. To empower your child to emerge as a future-ready global citizen of the 21st century, it is advisable to choose a curriculum that equips your child to pursue higher studies and career options anywhere across the globe. You’ve probably heard about the Cambridge International Curriculum (IGCSE) quite a bit. It’s one of the most popular education boards that has set high standards for Indian education. With its holistic approach, the IGCSE curriculum nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness among children. 

But the perks don’t stop there. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of the Cambridge International Curriculum and explain why choosing an IGCSE school for your child could truly make a difference. 

What is Cambridge International’s Curriculum?

The Cambridge International Curriculum (IGCSE) is a globally recognized education system developed by Cambridge Assessment International Education. It caters to students aged 5-19, focusing on their individual abilities and interests.

Affiliated with the esteemed University of Cambridge, it is offered in over 10,000 schools across 160 countries. Cambridge curriculum in India is highly esteemed for its focus on holistic development and readiness for higher education. By promoting independent thinking and problem-solving, it equips students to thrive in today’s interconnected world. 

Advantages of the Cambridge International Curriculum

Academic Rigor

The IGCSE curriculum is known for its rigorous academic standards. It pushes students to think critically, analyze information, and solve problems on their own. This rigorous approach to learning not only prepares students for academic success but also equips them with the skills they need to thrive in today’s fast-paced world. 

The curriculum focuses on developing critical thinking skills through interactive learning. Students are encouraged to ask questions, solve problems, and think critically. These skills are important for higher education and future careers. 

Flexibility 

The Cambridge International Curriculum is designed to let students customize their education to fit their interests and skills. With this flexible approach, students can choose subjects that align with their future goals and explore unique areas of interest. 

They also have the chance to select subjects that will be helpful for their future ambitions. This adaptability allows students to shape their academic path and create a personalized learning experience. Also, students can learn at their own pace to make sure they understand everything before moving on. 

International Recognition and University Preparation

One key advantage of the Cambridge International curriculum is its global credibility, which helps students apply to universities worldwide easily. This curriculum is well-known to universities globally for its strong academic standards and holistic approach. 

In addition, the emphasis on critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent research in IGCSE prepares students for the challenges of higher education. This approach not only enhances their intellectual abilities but also fosters a deeper understanding of their chosen field. 

Continuous Assessment

Continuous assessment plays a crucial role in the IGCSE curriculum, where coursework contributes to a percentage of the overall grade alongside final exams. This approach encourages students to consistently put in effort and work diligently throughout the academic year. By breaking down the evaluation process into smaller tasks, such as regular study, research, and project completion, students develop a habit of consistent and manageable progress. This approach reduces the stress of relying only on big exams and helps students understand subjects better, leading to a more holistic learning experience. 

Teacher Support and Feedback

The Cambridge International curriculum places a strong emphasis on personalized guidance and feedback from teachers. Teachers provide individual support, monitor progress, and offer constructive feedback to students during the continuous assessment process. This feedback is invaluable for improvement, as it helps students identify their strengths and areas for growth. 

With the help of experienced educators, students can sharpen their understanding and improve their performance. This guidance enables them to reach their fullest potential.

Enhanced Capabilities 

Another key benefit of the Cambridge International Curriculum is that it enhances student’s capabilities. It encourages critical thinking and independent learning, enabling students to analyze information and solve problems independently. This not only prepares them for success in academics but also equips them with the skills needed to thrive in a fast-paced world. 

The curriculum also promotes a global perspective, helping students excel in a diverse world and prepare for higher education and global employment. This gives them a competitive advantage as universities and employers worldwide recognize the high standard of education provided by the Cambridge curriculum. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the Cambridge International Curriculum (IGCSE) for your child can truly make a remarkable difference in their education journey. It prepares students to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world. If you’re looking for the best IGCSE schools in Madurai that encapsulate the values and advantages of the Cambridge International Curriculum, you can consider Vikaasa World School Here, your child will receive the holistic education and personalized guidance they need to excel academically and personally. Give your child the gift of a global education at Vikaasa World School!

Categories
Kindergarten

8 Strategies to Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten

Kindergarten, also known as preschool, is the first step in your child’s educational journey. It lays the foundation for their learning journey and is crucial for their holistic development. This phase of early education is vital in your child’s growth, as it forms the building blocks for higher education.

As a parent, it’s natural for you to wonder if your child is ready for kindergarten and what you can do to help them prepare. You have a significant role to play as their first teacher. Parents are  partners-in-education and play a very vital role in supporting schools in enhancing the learning journey of the child.

In this blog, we will explore 8 simple and creative strategies to prepare your child for kindergarten. These tips will simplify the process and ensure your child is well-prepared to attend the best kindergarten schools. 

1. Read Aloud Together

An effective strategy to prepare your child for kindergarten is to read aloud together. Spend time enjoying books of different genres and ask your child questions as you read. Encourage them to predict what might happen next and to describe what they see in the pictures. Start with shorter reading periods and gradually work your way up to at least 15 minutes each day. 

Another fun activity is practicing rhyming words together, which helps your child develop listening skills for vowel and consonant sounds. This strategy not only fosters language development but also enhances creativity.

2. Foster Self-help Skills

Another key strategy to prepare your child for kindergarten is to nurture self-help skills. Encourage them to participate in tasks like cleaning up toys, helping with chores, and brushing teeth. These skills are vital for kindergarten readiness. 

Teaching self-sufficiency gradually empowers your child to become more independent. By fostering self-help skills, you are setting a strong foundation for their success in kindergarten and beyond. 

3. Encourage Social Skills

Help your child understand their emotions and discuss what triggers those feelings. Give them ideas on how to express their emotions to others. 

An excellent way to do this is by reading books together that feature characters exploring their emotions. Discuss the actions of the characters with your child, asking questions like “How do you think the character felt?” and “What would you do in that situation?” This strategy promotes emotional intelligence and prepares your child for social interactions in schools for kindergarten. 

4. Engage Fine Motor Skills 

Fine motor skills involve using small muscles for precise movements in areas like the hands, fingers, lips, tongue, and eyes. Your child needs to have these skills to do well in school. You can help them improve their fine motor skills by doing activities like building with Legos, using child-safe scissors, playing with dough, stringing small beads, and picking up objects with tweezers.

You can also help them build finger strength by letting them swing and hang from bars. This will not only help their physical development but also improve hand-eye coordination and get them ready for tasks like writing and using school supplies. 

5. Play Outside

Playing outside is really important for your child’s growth and development. It helps them stay active, be creative, and make friends. They can learn how to ride a bike without training wheels, walk in a line, and play team sports. These activities not only prepare kids for kindergarten but also teach them rules and how to work together. They also help them learn about their cultural heritage and make learning fun. 

6. Count and Sort Objects

Counting is key for a child’s math journey and it can greatly help children entering kindergarten transition smoothly into a more structured learning environment. 

As a parent, you can make counting fun and engaging by incorporating it into everyday activities like sorting grains or playing with clay figurines. Simple games like hopscotch, where they count steps, also reinforce this skill. These activities teach numbers and boost fine motor skills, preparing children for the diverse activities in kindergarten.

7. Practice Pre-Writing Skills

One important way to get your child ready for kindergarten is to practice pre-writing skills. This includes teaching them how to form upper- and lower-case letters and hold a pencil correctly. Encourage them to recognize their first and last name in writing. 

Let them draw and color on different surfaces like a table or easel. Help them trace straight, zig-zagged, and curved lines and shapes. Completing simple mazes or dot-to-dots can also be helpful. These activities help develop fine motor skills and prepare your child for writing in school.

8. Teach to Obey

Schools like Vikaasa encourage students to obey with a cheerful attitude. By setting this expectation at home before school begins, you not only prepare your child for the kindergarten experience but also instill lifelong habits of obedience. Teaching them to use polite words like “please” and “thank you” is also important. This helps develop good manners and sets them up for success in social interactions

Conclusion

In conclusion, preparing your child for kindergarten is a crucial step in their educational journey. By implementing these simple and creative strategies, you can ensure that your child is well-prepared for kindergarten. If you are looking for the best schools for kindergarten in Hyderabad, Vikaasa is the way to go. With a holistic approach to education and a focus on the well-rounded development of each child, we are dedicated to providing an excellent kindergarten experience.