Play-Based vs. Academic Preschools

Many parents find themselves overwhelmed by the number of decisions they need to make during their search for the perfect preschool. Do you prefer full-time or part-time, are you looking for a particular philosophy or curriculum, do you feel more comfortable with a program that's closer to home or convenient to your commute to work?

Lastly, would your child thrive in a play-based program or a more academic one? What's the difference, and how do you choose between them?

The early childhood experts at Winnie are breaking down everything you need to know about academic vs. play-based preschools and how to know which option is right for your child. 

Academic preschools

Although the specific curriculum will vary from program to program, a preschool that describes itself as "academic" or focused on "kindergarten readiness" may fall on the more teacher-driven end of the spectrum. These programs may be more structured and focused on skills and early academics. 

What you may see in an academic-focused preschool program:

• More structure and teacher-lead activities 
• May focus on rote learning 
• A focus on early academics and readiness for elementary school
• May use worksheets or workbooks or assign homework
• The classroom may have "centers" that children rotate through each day (ex: writing center, math center, etc.)
• Circle time is more focused on achieving skills, recognizing letters and numbers, etc

Play-based preschools

Programs that identify as "play-based" tend to be a little more laid back and child-centered. The children's interests may drive the curriculum, and the teacher will weave early academics into the day in the context of play and changes to the classroom environment. 

What you may see in a play-based preschool program:

• Early academics are still covered but in the context of the curriculum and through the lens of play. 
• There may be more of a focus on social-emotional development and collaboration.
• More time is spent exploring the classroom materials, and children are free to make choices about how they spend their time within the options the teacher presents. 
• Student progress is monitored through observations from the teacher. 

A balanced approach

When it comes to preschool programs, it doesn't have to be one extreme or the other; many programs offer a combination of both play-based and academic. We know that children learn best through play, but that doesn't mean that a program can't focus on academics while also allowing children to make choices and explore. When touring preschools, to get a sense of where a program fits along the spectrum, here are some questions you may want to ask:

• How much time do children spend seated versus moving around the classroom freely? 
• How much of the day is child-driven vs. how much is directed by the teacher?
• How do you handle discipline? What are the rules of the classroom?
• How do you measure each child's progress?
• Are children free to explore their interests?
• What skills can I expect my child to work on throughout the year?
• How do you prepare children for Kindergarten and beyond?

Pros and Cons of each method

Although specifics vary from program to program, you may be wondering what some of the pros and cons of each method are. Programs that take a more balanced approach may not have some of the same benefits and drawbacks of schools that are one extreme or the other. It's important to tour any programs you're interested in and get a feel for whether it's a good fit for your child, but in general, here are some of the potential pros and cons of play-based vs. academic preschools. 

How do you choose?

Like most parenting decisions, there is no right or wrong choice in the play-based vs. academic face-off. You'll need to take into consideration what you know about your child as a learner. Does your child need more structure and routine, or do are they more laid back? You'll also need to consider your family's values and what you want your child to gain from their preschool experience. More than likely, you will know when you've found the right program for your child when you visit and speak with the director and teachers. 

You can use Winnie to search for licensed preschool programs near you and filter your results to show academic preschools, play-based programs, or blended options.