In the past fifteen years, the importance of early childhood education has become more clear. This is a period of tremendous growth and development, when the brain develops most rapidly. It is critical that during this period, children are exposed to a structured, caring, and academically rigorous program. Research and experience show that by second grade, many students in America are so far behind, they can never catch up to their potential. McClelland's early childhood program is designed so that each child is given the best opportunity to grow and develop into respectful students with strong academic ability.
There are five areas of development that are critical components of early development:
Social-The ability to form attachments, play with others, cooperate, share and develop relationships with others.
Physical-Development of fine and gross motor skills.
Intellectual-The process of making sense of the world around them.
Creative-The development of creativity using music, art, writing, reading, and singing.
Emotional-The development of self-awareness, self-confidence, and coping with feelings as well as understanding them.
