The first five years of a child’s life are a time of rapid growth and discovery. Research shows that 90% of brain development happens before the age of five (Harvard University, Center on the Developing Child), highlighting the importance of early childhood development research in shaping lifelong learning outcomes., making early childhood a critical period for learning. At Kids Academy, we believe that play-based learning is the most effective way for young children to develop foundational skills. Our Lifelong Learning Curriculum, exclusive to Affinity Education centres, is a play-based approach that ensures children develop essential foundational skills in a fun, engaging, and developmentally appropriate way.
This blog will explore what foundational learning is, why it’s important, and how our play-based curriculum prepares children for success in school and life.
What is Foundational Learning?
Foundational learning refers to the core skills and knowledge that help children build confidence, curiosity, and problem-solving abilities. These skills include literacy, numeracy, social-emotional development, and critical thinking. At Kids Academy, we integrate these essential skills into our daily routines through play-based learning, ensuring that children not only acquire knowledge but also develop a love for learning.
The Role of Play in Learning
Children are naturally curious and learn best when they are actively engaged. Play-based learning is an evidence-based approach that helps children develop cognitive, social, emotional, and motor skills while having fun. Research from the LEGO Foundation suggests that play supports:
- Cognitive development: Problem-solving, memory retention, and language skills
- Social skills: Cooperation, communication, and teamwork
- Emotional growth: Resilience, self-regulation, and confidence
- Physical development: Fine and gross motor skills through hands-on activities
At Kids Academy, our educators create play-rich environments where children can explore, experiment, and learn at their own pace.
Why is Foundational Learning Important?
Children who develop strong foundational skills in their early years are more likely to succeed academically and socially later in life. Studies from the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) indicate that children who engage in quality early learning programs:
- Show higher literacy and numeracy skills in primary school
- Develop better problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities
- Exhibit stronger emotional regulation and social interactions
- Are more confident and independent learners
Our play-based Lifelong Learning Curriculum at Kids Academy is designed to give children the best start in life by fostering curiosity, creativity, and a passion for learning.
Key Skills for School Readiness: What Children Should Learn Before Primary School
Before starting school, children benefit from mastering several key learning concepts:
- Language and literacy: Recognising letters, phonics, expanding vocabulary, and storytelling.
- Numeracy and problem-solving: Counting, recognising numbers, understanding patterns, and early mathematical thinking.
- Social and emotional development: Learning to share, express emotions, and collaborate with peers.
- Fine and gross motor skills: Improving hand-eye coordination, balance, and dexterity for writing readiness.
At Kids Academy, our play-based activities are designed to reinforce these skills in a natural and engaging way.
Developmental Milestones for Children Under Five
Each child develops at their own pace, but here are some key milestones we focus on:
- Babies (0-12 months): Exploring objects, responding to sounds, making eye contact, babbling.
- Toddlers (1-3 years): Using simple words, recognising familiar objects, engaging in pretend play.
- Preschoolers (3-5 years): Identifying letters and numbers, forming sentences, following instructions, playing cooperatively with others.
Our educators carefully observe and support each child's progress, ensuring they are developing the skills they need to thrive.
How Families Can Support Foundational Learning at Home
Learning doesn’t stop when children leave the classroom. Families play a crucial role in reinforcing foundational skills at home. Here are some simple ways parents can support their child’s development:
- Read together daily: Reading books helps build vocabulary and comprehension.
- Encourage play: Let children explore puzzles, building blocks, and pretend play.
- Make everyday moments educational: Count objects around the house, describe colours, and talk about shapes.
- Foster independence: Allow children to make choices and solve small problems on their own.
- Create a consistent routine: Predictable schedules help children feel secure and confident.
At Kids Academy, we believe in building strong partnerships with families to create a seamless learning experience between home and child care.
Best Books to Support Foundational Learning (Ages 0-5)
Reading is one of the most powerful ways to support early literacy and comprehension. Here are some recommended books for each stage of early childhood:
- Babies (0-12 months):
- Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? – Bill Martin Jr.
- Where’s Spot? – Eric Hill
- Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes – Mem Fox
- Toddlers (1-3 years):
- Dear Zoo – Rod Campbell
- The Very Hungry Caterpillar – Eric Carle
- That’s Not My Puppy – Usborne Touchy-Feely series
- Preschoolers/kindergarteners (3-5 years):
- We’re Going on a Bear Hunt – Michael Rosen
- Chicka Chicka Boom Boom – Bill Martin Jr. & John Archambault
- The Gruffalo – Julia Donaldson
Final Thoughts
At Kids Academy, our play-based Lifelong Learning Curriculum, exclusive to Affinity Education childcare centres, ensures that children develop foundational skills in a fun and engaging way, preparing them for future learning. Discover how Kids Academy’s play-based curriculum nurtures early learning and sets the foundation for future success! Our curriculum is designed to spark curiosity, foster creativity, and prepare children for their next big step - primary school.
If you’re looking for a nurturing early learning centre that prioritises play-based education, book a tour at Kids Academy today!