Many preschools and early childhood centers find literacy to be a key curricular necessity. Early reading and writing skills are essential to every child's later school success. In a joint position statement on Learning to Read and Write, NAEYC and the International Reading Association stress the importance of early literacy skills and development through adding curricular components that focus on a range of reading and writing content. These include providing young children in preschools with the opportunity to hear spoken language through discussion and oral book reading, visual exposure to print words in books and other materials, activities that focus on phonemic awareness or breaking down words into units or syllables and the chance to hone writing or prewriting skills using an array of tools and materials. (See Reference 2.)
Although many adults think of mathematics as a part of an elementary school curriculum, learning basic numerical, geometry and other skills should be a key area of focus in preschool. Like early literacy skills, early math skills can translate into later academic successes or the ability to better understand these concepts when reintroduced in kindergarten and beyond. According to NAEYC and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), a preschool mathematics curriculum should should be based in accepted, evidence-based child development knowledge. This includes understanding the typical 3-to-5-year-old's cognitive, physical, social and emotional development when planning for classroom content. (See Reference 3.)
Artistic areas such as the visual arts, drama, music and dance are often forgone for more academic pursuits in the educational arena. Just as early literacy and mathematics skill building is critical for later school success, the arts can help young children to grow and develop in many positive ways. Including the arts in a preschool curriculum can inspire young learners to use their imaginations, build critical thinking skills and get a better grasp of emotions. Additionally, the arts can cross the school curriculum and link to other content areas such as science, math or reading. For example, a simple mixing experiment blending yellow, red and blue paints is an art activity that also teaches the learner about the science of color. (See Reference 4.)
Preschool science lessons in chemistry, physics and biology can help the inquisitive young child to explore the world around. As part of a school curriculum, science has many uses in developing positive academic and general skills. Inquiry-based lessons that are hands-on and allow the child to explore and discover at his own pace can aid in the development of critical thinking abilities, problem solving, sequencing skills and language/literacy areas. Additionally, science can blend into other areas such as mathematics (e.g., measuring quantities or weighing items). (See Reference 5.)
When creating a preschool curriculum list, consider all possible areas that your specific program needs to include. Some schools, such as those within public districts, may need to adhere to state-mandated early learning standards. In a case such as this, a curriculum list may also need to include social studies, nutrition/health, physical education and possibly even a foreign language.