Children are curious and active learners who learn best when they use their senses to acquire knowledge.  In fact, current studies suggest that movement is the preschooler’s favored mode of learning, and that concepts experienced physically have the most lasting impact on a child.  Given these findings, it’s pretty clear that young children will learn more effectively at play based preschools. San Jose has many wonderful preschools to choose from, such as these three institutions.

Play-n-Learn Preschool

Most parents fear that their child will learn nothing if they play all day but at a preschool like Play-n-Learn, there is a purpose to every game and activity each child engages in.  Each classroom at Play-n-Learn provides children with a weekly theme to give direction to their learning and form a well-planned curriculum. However, each child is given enough time to explore and go where their curiosity takes them.  Math skills are practiced everyday using various manipulative toys, and creative activities in music and art allow children to express themselves and develop valuable skills.  Play-n-Learn also has state-of-the-art playhouses and outdoor play structures, providing children with hours of imaginative play and opportunities to cement friendships.  Besides a preschool class, Play-n-Learn also has toddler classes, pre-kindergarten, and kindergarten. Find out more at http://www.playnlearnpreschool.com

MiniGym Explorations Inc.

Since the early 1990s, MiniGym Explorations has provided children and their parents with a complete early childhood education program and hours of bonding time.  This small yet cozy preschool is known for their unique Exploragym Program, which provides each child with the skills needed for kindergarten without placing undue stress and pressure on them.  In this program, basic reading and math are taught through games and hands-on activities, and each child is allowed to learn at their own pace.  After all, the eyes of most children are not mature enough to read until they are 7 years old – why push children to learn beyond their limits? MiniGym Explorations also has a parent-child enrichment program for stay-home moms or dads who want to take an active role in their child’s preschool education.  For three hours a week, you and your child will engage in colorful activities designed to enhance physical skills, language skills, and social skills.  Parent-child classes are being offered for kids as young as 12 months to 8 years.  Learn more about this fantastic preschool at http://www.minigymexplorations.com.

The Learning Company and Academy

The small, family-owned Learning Company and Academy (LCA) provide preschoolers with the perfect balance between structure and play.  Each day is structured around a weekly theme, as well as activities in art, science, music, creative dramatics, movement, and Spanish.  It might sound like a lot for a preschooler to learn, but the lessons are done in a fun, engaging manner that places very little pressure on the children. They also get a lot of outdoor playtime, as well as time for self-directed activities.  The learning experience is definitely not limited to the four walls of the schoolroom; there are also monthly field trips, a PE program, and a fantastic music program that allows kids to perform for their parents.  Learn more about LCA at http://www.thelearningcompanyandacademy.com.

These are just some of the excellent preschools in San Jose!