National Kindergarten Day 2021: Significance And Ways To Observe The Occasion

A child is enrolled into kindergarten when they are as young as three years old. The kindergarten years play a key role in shaping up a child’s future as they learn the basic life skills there and also the ways of interacting with their peers.

Kindergarten days leave an indelible impact on an individual’s mind because they receive the best treatment from teachers who encourage them to freely explore their skills and interests. By showering almost similar affection as that of a parent, the teachers get them to sing, dance, learn and most importantly make their first bunch of friends.

National Kindergarten Day is observed on April 21 every year to celebrate the education we receive during the kindergarten years.

According to UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), the concept of kindergarten education is focused on the holistic development of a child.

"Early childhood care and education (ECCE) is more than preparation for primary school. It aims at the holistic development of a child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs to build a solid and broad foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing. ECCE has the possibility to nurture caring, capable and responsible future citizens,” the organization said.

The significance of National Kindergarten Day:

The birthday of German educator Friedrich Fröbel is marked as the National Kindergarten Day to honor his legacy. Fröbel, in 1837, founded the first play and activity institute called kindergarten with an aim to help children indulge in their natural curiosity. The word Kindergarten is derived from a mid-19th century German word that means "children’s garden."

Fröbel believed that young children should be given the liberty to follow their own interests, away from the standard classroom environment, and learn at their own pace.

How to observe the day:

• Arrange a virtual reunion with your child’s classmates to strengthen their bond and encourage mutual learning.
• Call your child’s kindergarten teachers to thank them for how they helped your children to make sense of the world.
• Reminisce your child’s kindergarten memories with them.
• Share your child’s kindergarten pictures on social media and let others know about the significance of the day by attaching a small note.