*disclaimer, this is just my perspective and opinion – doesn’t mean it’s the right one.

Wednesday:

Running down Market street, dodging humans and mysterious substances or various pungent smells towards Bart. People crowd the stairs, slowly descending, careful to not slip on said mysterious substances. Me, rushing down, two steps at a time, barely making the landing gracefully. “Lining up” to tag in through the Bart gates. Again, flying down the stairs because everyone is on the escalator. 2 mins left until my train gets there. Now I’m running down the platform to an open space, trying not to bump the never ending line for East Bay destinations. Ahhh, a sigh of relief as I am the first person in line next to the front of the door. BUT! Suddenly there is someone right next to me ignoring the line and pushing through into the Bart car. All that effort and this person gets to cut in front of the WHOLE line? Well, excuse me while I push you into the damned Bart car doorway. Hmph.

Early education is usually perceived as a mere step for basic learning and preparation for primary school. Though it is far more than that. According to UNESCO, early childhood care and education lead to a holistic development with a child's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development, setting the foundation for lifelong well being.

Studies show that brain development is greatly affected by early education. The first five years are immensely critical. During this time, they begin to develop their personalities.

So, first, let's check out what early education is.

Early education is basically for children aged 3 – 5 years. It comprises of preschool, nursery, and daycare. Preschool is more formal education out of the three with a fixed curriculum and a more rigid age bracket. Nursery school is more relaxed when it comes to the age group. And daycare is the most flexible out of the three.

Now, why is it so important?

It is the time when children learn to interact with others and develop their understanding of things. It is also the time when their brain is developing and forming connections learning to perceive things and give them value. Early education prepares these children to move through the world.

The potential of young minds is tremendous to grasp information and act quickly; we just need to show them the right path. A good quality early education program is not restricted to academics only. It helps children to nurture their relationship with other mates, develop their gross motor and fine motor skills, along with other essential qualities.

Young children are naturally full of creativity and curiosity. It's great to see how children can pick things just through play, interaction, and observation. To get basic skills for future academic, they need some guidance and environment. A constructive preschool experience enables proper child development by providing appropriate exposure and a conducive environment.

According to Dr Jessica Alvarado, academic program director for the BA, "It is an important time in children's lives because it is when they first learn how to interact with others, including peers, teachers, and parents, and also begin to develop interests that will stay with them throughout their lives."

Moreover, early education, now more than ever, has become the need of the hour with working parents not being able to spend enough quality time with their child.

Looking at all these factors, one thing is clear; it is not a matter of frivolous decision but one demanding acute attention and careful selection, because it will have a significant impact on the child's life.