Preschool vs. Daycare: Are We Getting It Wrong?
Last updated
Last updated
Recently, I had a conversation with a representative from the Japan Education Center, and something he said really stood out. In Japan, nursery education starts as early as 8 months and continues until the child turns 5. Not only is this a common practice, but it is also a government regulation. This made me wonder—why do we undervalue daycare and early education in our own system?
Japan recognizes early childhood education as a crucial foundation for a child’s overall development. The system is designed not just for working parents but also for the well-being of children. Early learning environments focus on building independence, social skills, and basic life habits.
Brain Development – Research shows that 90% of brain development happens before the age of 5. Structured early learning programs help in cognitive, emotional, and social growth.
Independence & Social Skills – Children learn to interact, share, and communicate effectively from a young age.
Preparation for School & Life – A strong early education system ensures children are ready for primary school, not just academically but emotionally and socially.
Support for Parents – Quality early childhood education allows parents to work while ensuring their child is in a nurturing learning environment.
In Kerala, and India in general, daycare is often seen as just a babysitting service rather than an essential part of early childhood education. Many parents consider preschool as a place where children only start learning ABCs and numbers, but it is much more than that.
Many parents enroll their children in preschools for convenience rather than understanding its educational value. There is still a misconception that structured learning should start only after age 5. As a result, parents often overlook how a strong preschool foundation can impact a child’s future learning ability.
Preschools are not just about academics. They are about preparing children for life. They teach: ✔ Communication and language skills ✔ Emotional and social intelligence ✔ Creativity and problem-solving ✔ Basic self-care and independence
We need to stop seeing preschools as just another daycare option. Instead, we should recognize them as essential for early learning and development. A well-structured preschool lays the foundation for a child’s lifelong learning journey.
It’s time we shift our mindset and embrace early childhood education as a necessity, not a luxury. Because the first five years shape the next fifty!
This blog is entirely based on my personal observations and experiences.
