Meet the Little Academic Star: A Look at How Early Childhood Development Helps Kids
- Ofentse, a 6 Grader, developed a passion for learning at a Cotlands ECD centre in Lydenburg
- She qualified for the GrowSmart inter-schools competition and won first place in the literacy category, bringing home a sizable prize for her school
- South Africans were impressed by the girl's amazing achievement and sent their congratulatory messages
- Briefly News spoke to occupational therapist Olivia Rae Oliver on the importance of early childhood development in a child's academic life and more
One young academic prodigy who has captured the hearts of many with her impressive achievements at such a tender age.
Source: Getty Images
Lydenburg 6th Grader wins literacy award
As a shining example of the power of early childhood development Ofentse a Grade 6 learner from Lydenburg Primary School’s academic journey has proven that the foundation laid during the early years of a child's life is crucial for future success.
According to the Good Things Guy through play-based early learning, Cotlands has been a ray of hope for disadvantaged children for 88 years, equipping them with the skills they need to succeed in school and life and Ofentse happened to be one of those who excelled as the top-performing student and literacy champion.
PAY ATTENTION: stay informed and follow us on Google News!
A look at how early childhood development helps kids
The majority of parents find it difficult to cover the costs of Early Childhood Development Centers, according to Thandi, Regional Manager for Cotlands Mpumalanga. Many youngsters from underprivileged families have benefited from the Cotlands ECD Centre in Lydenberg by learning through play and developing their social and cognitive abilities.
When Ofentse was two years old, she started going to the centre. She developed a plethora of knowledge, abilities, and skills there that let her start elementary school right away.
Due to her exceptional performance in the classroom, the intelligent student has received numerous academic honours.
Last year, she was chosen to compete in the GrowSmart inter-school competition, and she did incredibly well according to the Good Things Guy. Ofentse's school received R100,000 worth of equipment, including computers and other teaching resources, for taking first place in the literacy competition.
How early childhood development shapes academic success
While speaking to Briefly News, occupational therapist Olivia Rae Oliver said to the publication that early childhood development is crucial for academic success as it forms the foundation for necessary skills, concepts, and attitudes.
"For most, starting school requires a child to have some fine motor and gross motor skills, the ability to sit at a table for some time and some socio-emotional skills to regulate themselves. Even these skills are built on more foundational blocks, e.g. visual motor integration, hand-eye coordination, spatial relations, body image, and memory, to name a few. And again, these are built on more foundational blocks, she said.
The occupational therapist explained the role of play-based learning in the development of cognitive and social skills in young children by stating that functional play involves fine motor development and body movement, while constructive play involves manipulating objects to create shapes.
Social pretend, which changes the function of objects, promotes cognitive, perspective-taking, communication, and understanding of social dialogue. Rules-based games like hide-and-seek and board games also aid cognitive development and social understanding.
Olivia shared the key skills that children develop through attending an ECD centre and how these skills impact their performance in school.
"Cognitive building blocks develop better literacy and numeracy skills, problem-solving and critical thinking as well as language development. Physical building blocks help to promote the skills required to maintain a healthy sitting posture as well as promote fundamental skills for later sporting skills."
Social and emotional building blocks enhance peer interactions, self-regulation, self-esteem, confidence, and independence and set the tone for social norms, school rules, and following instructions.
Olivia emphasises the importance of ensuring that your child's ECD centre is registered with the Department of Social Development and meets health clearance requirements. These centres cater to children aged birth to 9 years, fostering cognitive, physical, and socio-emotional skills.
SA applauds the young pupil
Mzansi netizens were proud of the young lady and many flooded the post with congratulatory messages.
Teresa Southgate said:
"Awesome, congratulations."
Linda Esbensen Weiland added:
"Well done to her! Wish her all the best for her future school career."
Eben Heron replied:
"Well done keep up the good work."
Source: Getty Images
3 Clever SA kids who impressed with their knowledge
- These five adorable youngsters showcased their impressive knowledge of South Africa in a video posted by @zelda84977.
- A cute child who flexed his big brains was a hit on TikTok as he was delighted to receive some of his work back, and he got a very high mark.
- One young child's smarts were all the rave of TikTok and the proud parents showcased their child's impressive literacy skills.
PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU - click on “Recommended for you” and enjoy!
Source: Briefly News
