Some of us are not familiar with the meaning of concept learning and how important it is to introduce the concept learning in the early age. Concept learning is more about how to introduce and make them understand through real objects around them or direct experiences as young children learn through their senses and interactions. There are some reasons why toddlers and preschool-aged children should be familiar with early learning concepts such as letters, colors, and numbers. This stage of learning is not about formal learning for academic wise but it focuses more on introducing basic skills and facts that help young children gain independence and understand the world around them. It is important for our children to be independent and understand the world around them. These skills will affect their development in language, cognitive, social emotional and even their physical skills. Children who are never spoken to will not acquire language as the language must be used for interaction with the child; for example, a child who regularly hears language on the TV or plays gadget but nowhere else will not learn to talk. This child will not understand the concept of objects, numbers, letters as no one told them. Children acquire language through interaction – not only with their parents and other adults, but also with other children.
Parents and teachers can best introduce early learning concepts naturally through the context of reading, everyday activities, songs, and playful games that stimulate children’s curiosity. However, parents should also know that every child develops at his own pace and they are smart in different ways; therefore, we cannot compare one with others. There is no “right” order in which children learn these concepts. Some children will learn numbers before letters and some learn to recognize and identify the shapes earlier than others.
written by Yenti Handala
Center Director of Tutor Time Pluit