The learning programme in the preschool years

Abstract

The objective of this study was to record the educational programme received by preschool children as delivered by the kindergarten assistants. The study was conducted in one kindergarten state school in the central part of Malta. Thirteen interviews were carried out with the kindergarten assistants. Throughout the scholastic year, observations were carried out in classrooms of 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds. Each of the 13 participating classes was observed once every term. The major finding revealed that children attending this school were learning through play. Activities prepared by the kindergarten assistants provided enjoyable experiences which intrinsically motivated these children whilst helping them to grow cognitively.