While some educators believe online learning can be an effective alternative to in-person schooling, other educational experts strongly disagree, arguing that nothing can replace the benefits of face-to-face interaction.
In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each pre-K option to help you discover which one will be best for your child.
Is Online Pre-K Better Than In-Person for Kids?
Pre-K programs, whether in-person or online, provide children with a strong foundation for future academic success in kindergarten and beyond. Parents should consider sending their child to pre-K between the ages of 3 and 4 based on their child’s needs and readiness indicators, such as language, social, and fine motor skills.
When deciding between online and in-person pre-K programs, parents need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages as they relate to their child. After assessing the options, parents must decide what makes the most sense for their family and their child’s educational needs.
The Advantages of Online Pre-K Education
Flexibility
Online pre-K learning offers flexibility and convenience for families with busy schedules. Also, online programs complement families who prefer to homeschool their children. With online learning, parents can provide the lessons when it works best for the child’s and family’s schedules.
Customization
Online pre-K learning allows for greater parental involvement and control over the learning environment. Parents can customize their child’s learning experience by choosing the content and modifying the learning pace to match their child’s unique learning style and academic level.
Cost-effective
Online pre-K learning programs are more affordable than traditional in-person programs. Families can save on transportation and other expenses typically associated with in-person pre-K education.
Accessibility
Online pre-K learning programs can be accessed by families regardless of their geographical location, making it possible for children living in remote or rural areas to access high-quality educational materials and resources.
The Disadvantages of Online Pre-K Education
Lack of Social Interaction
Children in online pre-K programs may not have the opportunity to engage with their peers their same age, which can hinder their social development. This lack of socialization may be one of the most significant drawbacks of online pre-K learning. However, parents can bridge this gap by organizing playdates for their children.
Too Much Screen Time
Online learning can be challenging, especially for young children who may struggle to use technology. Aside from technical glitches, which can cause frustration and hinder the learning experience, young children should not sit and focus in front of a screen for long periods of time. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents and educators limit screen time to one hour a day for children between the ages of 2 and 5.
Limited Hands-on Learning
Online pre-K programs may not offer as many hands-on learning opportunities as in-person pre-K programs. Children in online programs may miss the sensory, exploration, and experimentation experiences they’d gain in traditional pre-K programs.
The Advantages of In-Person Pre-K Education
Social Interaction
In-person pre-K programs offer a social environment that can contribute to children’s social and emotional development. Children can interact with their peers, form friendships, and develop social skills that prepare them for future educational experiences.
Hands-on Learning
In-person pre-K programs offer numerous opportunities for hands-on learning, which is essential at this developmental stage. Sensory activities, exploration, and experimentation can help children build crucial cognitive and physical skills.
Indoor and Outdoor Learning Opportunities
Indoors, children can participate in interactive activities, creative play, and collaborative projects that foster social-emotional development and improve their cognitive and motor skills. Outdoors, pre-K kids can engage in physical activity with their peers as they play and explore.
Supportive Learning Community
In-person pre-K creates a collaborative environment where parents and children feel supported and empowered. Children can interact with other kids their age, which helps build social skills and fosters friendships. And parents can connect with other parents and teachers, which provides a support system for families navigating the challenges of raising young children.
Structured Learning Environment
In-person pre-K programs offer a structured learning environment that can help children build self-discipline and get used to the routines and expectations of formal education.
The Disadvantages of In-Person Pre-K Education
Potential Health Risks
What started as a concern for families during the COVID-19 pandemic still persists today. Unfortunately, despite precautions, in-person school may have a higher risk of spreading illnesses due to the close proximity of children. For children with specific health concerns and conditions, parents and caregivers need to assess risks of in-person learning vs. the benefits.
Less Flexibility
In-person pre-K programs require families to transport their child to and from school, and follow a schedule, which can be challenging for those with busy schedules or those living in areas with limited access to programs.
Cost
Some in-person pre-K programs can be expensive due to transportation costs, supplies, and tuition fees.That’s why it’s important to look for free high-quality programs in your area!
Final Thoughts on In-Person vs. Online Pre-K
Individual circumstances related to your family’s and your child’s needs should be considered when determining whether in-person or online pre-K is best for your young child.
Online pre-K may benefit children who can’t attend physical schools, such as those with health issues or distance challenges. It allows greater parental involvement and lessons customized for your child’s abilities. However, keep in mind developmental recommendations for young children and extended screen time.
In contrast, if it’s feasible, in-person learning provides more opportunities for interactive, hands-on learning experiences and social interactions that are essential for social, emotional, and cognitive development.
According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), “While there are tools online that can support children’s learning, the reality is that there is no online equivalent to preschool.”
Secure a Bright Future for Your Child
MECK Pre-K is high quality free pre-K education open to all four-year-old children in Mecklenburg County. Classrooms are located in licensed childcare centers and taught by licensed teachers and highly qualified assistant teachers. MECK Pre-K is administered by Smart-Start of Mecklenburg County and funded by Mecklenburg County.
Do you have a child who is not old enough for pre-K this year? Sign up for our email list and be notified when they’re eligible for MECK Pre-K. Simply go to MeckPreK.org/future-meck-pre-k-students and select your child’s age group.