Child Development: The Basis of Human Development
To develop humans, we need to develop children.
Child development is a critical aspect of human development, as it lays the foundation for a person’s lifelong development and well-being. It refers to the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes that occur from birth through adolescence.
In the context of human development, child development is seen as a key component of achieving long-term human development goals. By investing in children’s health, education, and well-being, societies can help to ensure that children reach their full potential and become productive, engaged members of society.
Child development is influenced by a wide range of factors, including genetics, environment, nutrition, and social interactions. It is also shaped by the policies and practices of the societies in which children live, such as access to healthcare, education, and other essential services.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognize the importance of investing in children’s development, with specific targets related to improving access to quality education, reducing child mortality, and promoting health and well-being for all children.
Neuroscientists declare that if a child fails to receive the required experiences during the early 6 years, his brain may never develop properly because the human brain reaches about 90% of its adult size before age 6. Imam Ghazali (R.A.) and Ibn-e Khuldoon also emphasized the importance of the early years in personality development. Dr. Maria Montessori, in her famous work “The Absorbent Mind,” considers the early years to be the most vital years of a human life.
Overall, child development is a critical aspect of human development, and investing in children’s well-being and development is essential for creating a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.
The importance of Child Development for Society
Child development is critical for our society for several reasons:
Building a Foundation for Lifelong Learning: The early years of a child’s life are crucial for building the foundation for lifelong learning. By investing in children’s education and development, we can help them reach their full potential and become productive, engaged members of society.
Creating Healthy and Productive Adults: Children who receive adequate nutrition, healthcare, and education are more likely to grow up to be healthy, productive adults who can contribute to society.
Reducing Poverty and Inequality: Investment in children can help them break the cycle of poverty and reduce inequality as they develop the tools needed for a fulfilling life.
Promoting Social and Emotional Well-Being: Early childhood experiences shape children’s social and emotional development, which in turn affects their mental health and well-being throughout their lives.
Supporting Economic Growth: Investing in children’s development can also support economic growth by creating a more educated and skilled workforce and by reducing the burden of healthcare and social services on the economy.
Overall, child development is necessary and important for building a healthy, productive, and equitable society. By investing in children’s development, we can create a brighter future for all.
International Research about Preschools and Child Development
Now let’s see what significant and longitudinal research about the importance of pre-schooling and child development tells us:
Perry Preschool Study
Effects of HAVING or NOT HAVING Quality Preschool
A 25 years long research “Perry Preschool Study” – by Noble Prize Winner James Heckman – describes the deep effect of preschool on children.
Results of HAVING QUALITY Pre-schooling
The research conducted on a group of children when they were 3 years old until they reached the age of 40. The study reveals that when children, who received quality preschool education, reached age 28:
- Had better financial status, good jobs and earnings
- Completed graduation or higher education
- Less involved in crimes,
Results of NOT Having QUALITY Preschool
When compared, the children, who did not attend a preschool or attended a low-quality preschool, are found to be more indulge in unemployment, low literacy and high percentage of involvement in crimes.
After the study, the concept of preschool and child development centers has been changed. The concept of Quality Pre-schooling and Child Development Centre are being implemented in the most developed country.
Along with other VITAL dimensions of child development and preschools, Fun4Learn Quality Preschool and Child Development Centre System accommodates findings of Perry Preschool Study.
In the modern world, early education or Preschools receive more attention, budgets and support from governments and schools authorities’ due to its proven importance in human development for nations.
Steven Barnett, a well-known expert on Early Education Research from USA declares that:
- Quality preschool education can be a good economic investment
- Access and quality must be improved if society is to obtain the returns (in future)
How Could We Ensure Child Development Holistically?
As demonstrated in works of early childhood experts and preschool researches, Child development is important because it lays the foundation for a child’s future success in all areas of life. During the early years of life, children’s brains are developing rapidly, laying the groundwork for future learning, social and emotional skills, and physical health. Research shows that early childhood experiences have a profound impact on a child’s long-term outcomes, from academic achievement to career success and even overall health and well-being.
At Ataleeq Foundation, we understand the importance of child development and have designed our Fun4Learn Program to support and enhance it. Our program is based on the latest research in early childhood education and is tailored to the unique needs and interests of each child.
Through our Fun4Learn Program, preschoolers engage in a wide range of activities that promote physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. From learning letters and numbers to developing social and emotional intelligence, our program provides a comprehensive approach to child development that prepares children for success in school and in life.
But our program is not just about academics – it’s about cultivating a love of learning and a sense of curiosity that will serve children well throughout their lives. By creating a supportive, engaging, and fun learning environment, we help children develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in all areas of their lives.
If you run a school you can be a member of Fun4 Learn Program to avail scientifically developed ways to ensure holistic child development at your campuses:
Development Stages and Milestones of Child Development from pregnancy to year 12
Child development is a complex and dynamic process that occurs in stages from birth through adolescence. Each stage of development is characterized by different milestones and challenges, and it is important for parents and educators to understand these stages in order to provide the best possible support for children’s growth and development.
At Ataleeq Foundation, we understand the importance of supporting children’s development at every stage of the process. That’s why our Fun4Learn Program is designed to be developmentally appropriate and tailored to the unique needs and interests of each child. Whether you are a parent opting for homeschooling in early years of your children or school owner who wants international standard methods, environments, and tools for child development that satisfy parents, the Fun4Learn Program is just made to cater to all your needs.
9 Months before Birth:
Child development begins before birth, with prenatal development being a critical stage. During this time, the fetus undergoes significant physical, neurological, and emotional development. Ataleeq Foundation’s Fun4Learn Program provides resources and support for parents during this stage, including prenatal education and support groups, to help ensure a healthy start for both mother and child.
Infancy and Toddlerhood (0-3 years):
During infancy and toddlerhood, children are rapidly developing their motor, cognitive, language, and social-emotional skills. Ataleeq Foundation’s Fun4Learn Program provides age-appropriate activities and resources to support this development, such as play-based learning and stimulation, tummy time to encourage crawling and reaching, and socialization with peers to foster social and emotional development.
Early Childhood (3-6 years):
In early childhood, children continue to develop their cognitive, language, and social-emotional skills at a rapid pace. Ataleeq Foundation’s Fun4Learn Program offers a range of activities and resources to support this development, including play-based learning, storytelling and imaginative play to develop creativity and critical thinking, and collaborative activities to promote social awareness and teamwork.
Middle Childhood (6-12 years):
During middle childhood, children are developing their cognitive, social, and emotional skills even further. Ataleeq Foundation’s Fun4Learn Program provides age-appropriate activities and resources to support this development, such as academic tutoring and homework support, STEM learning, and social and emotional learning activities.
Adolescence (12-18 years):
During adolescence, children are developing their identity, autonomy, and decision-making skills, while also facing a range of social and emotional challenges. Ataleeq Foundation’s Fun4Learn Program provides resources and support to help adolescents navigate these challenges, including mentorship and leadership development programs, career counseling and planning, and mental health support.
By providing age-appropriate activities and resources at each stage of development, Ataleeq Foundation’s Fun4Learn Program supports children’s growth and development in a holistic and meaningful way. Our program is designed to create a fun, engaging, and supportive learning environment that fosters a love of learning and prepares children for success in school and in life.
Why using FUN Theory is essential for Learning?
Kindergarten’s founder Friedrich Froebel once said:
“Play is the highest expression of human development in childhood, for it alone is the free expression of what is in a child’s soul.”
Fun Theory is an approach to learning that emphasizes the importance of play, exploration, and enjoyment in the learning process. It recognizes that children learn best when they are engaged, interested, and having fun.
In preschool education, Fun Theory is particularly important because it helps young children develop a love of learning and a positive attitude towards education. By incorporating fun and engaging activities into the learning process, preschoolers are more likely to stay motivated and interested in learning.
At Ataleeq Foundation, we understand the importance of Fun Theory in preschool education, which is why we have designed our Fun4Learn Program to incorporate it into every aspect of our curriculum. Our program is based on the latest research in early childhood education and is designed to engage and excite children about learning.
Through our Fun4Learn Program, preschoolers engage in a wide range of activities that promote learning through play and exploration. From hands-on activities that develop fine motor skills to imaginative play that encourages social and emotional development, our program provides a fun and engaging learning environment that promotes growth and development in all areas.
But our Fun4Learn Program is not just about having fun – it’s about achieving meaningful learning outcomes. By integrating play and exploration into the learning process, we help children develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity that will serve them well throughout their lives.
Investing in your child’s preschool education is one of the most important things you can do for their future success. Enroll your child in Ataleeq Foundation’s Fun4Learn Program today and give them the gift of a fun, engaging, and meaningful early learning experience.
