In Ontario, preschool education is designed for children before they enter into formal education, typically targeting children aged 2-4 years. The following areas of development are common in preschool curriculums:
- Personal, social and emotional development
- Communication, including talking and listening
- Knowledge and understanding of the world
- Creative and aesthetic development
- Physical development
- Mathematical awareness and development
It is at this stage of development children learn and process information rapidly and express interest and fascination in each new discovery. These qualities make them excellent candidates for education, although most are not ready for structured elementary education.
Early Years Program
Sarnia-Lambton operates numerous Resource/Ontario Early Years programs for children, parents and caregivers. The programs provide support, learning opportunities and social interaction. The centres are friendly meeting places where adults and children can play together, make new friends, gain new skills, ask questions, and share ideas.
Some of the following programs are offered at Early Years Centres:
- Daily playgroups
- Toy/book/video lending libraries
- Resource and equipment lending libraries
- Relief care
- Workshops and information sessions
- Family social events
