Early childhood is a very important stage in a child’s life. In the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) this early stage is put forth as the base of what is to come in a child’s academic and personal growth. Also it is put forward that between the ages of 3 and 8 children grow out very quickly and require strong support during these years.
NEP 2020 is to see an overhaul of early childhood education which it does through structure, clarity and long term direction. It redefines how children learn, how teachers guide them, and how schools present meaningful learning environments. Also it is a policy that encourages CBSE colleges and schools to take on a flexible and child centered approach.
The goal is simple: Provide each child with what they need for successful and fun learning which includes active participation and age appropriate instruction. With the introduction of the new guidelines NEP 2020 is transforming the early education field in India and is helping students to develop strong basic skills from the very start.
Key NEP 2020 Changes Affecting Early Childhood Education
NEP 2020 presents a large-scale rework which puts early education in a more inclusive, creative and effective light. Also it reports to do better in terms of learning results at the same time which is to say that the pressure put on young students is reduced.
Universal Foundational Learning — What NEP 2020 Mandates
In 2020 it was put forth that we see universal foundational literacy and numeracy for all kids by Grade 3. We aim to see that each and every child develops basic reading, writing, and math skills at the right age.
Schools to restructure learning activities to fit in with what a child’s development requires. Also instead of pushing through academic material at a fast pace which may leave some behind, we see to it that we are developing cognitive skills, language, and motor skills. In this way we are to present to the early years a confident group of students which also has a very good academic foundation.
Multilingualism and Play-Based Learning in Early Years
NEP 2020 puts a large focus on multilingual exposure. In which they may learn in their native tongue or local language which in turn makes the concepts easy for them to understand. Language learning is made natural and stress free.
The policy also reports that play based and activity driven learning is the key. What we see is that young children do best when they are in a discovery and fun filled environment. NEP 2020 puts forward storytelling, music, games, puzzles, sensory activities, and role play as ideal learning tools. This not only makes the process of learning enjoyable and relevant but also helps in the growth of creativity, problem solving skills, and communication in children.
How NEP 2020 Guides Curriculum Design in CBSE Schools
NPCI in 2020 introduced a restructured curriculum which is a step up from the past. Also it is put forth that CBSE schools and colleges adopt a flexible and scientific approach in the early stages of a child’s education.
Integration of Play, Activity, and Experiential Modules
Children do best when they experience the concepts with their bodies and emotions. The policy we have put in place is for experiential learning which has activities as a main part of the core curriculum. Art, dance, physical play, nature based tasks, and storytelling are now a part of day to day learning.
This change in approach which in turn sparks children’s curiosity and we see also that it puts forth by the teachers more dynamic classes which in turn promote real world knowledge.
Alignment Between Pre-Primary Frameworks and CBSE Colleges’ Entry Points
NEP 2020 has that primary pre-school education will tie in with what is taught in Grade 1 in the CBSE system. We have included three years of pre-primary and two years of early primary in the foundation stage.
This alignment also closes academic gaps and we see a seamless transition in the learning process. We put in place a structure which sees that students leave the primary level with strong foundation skills and are at par for more in depth study in senior grades.
Teacher Training and Capacity Building under NEP 2020
Teachers are at the core of what the National Education Policy has put forth for reform. In 2020 the policy focused on improving teacher training and also ensuring that educators are equipped with the skills to very well guide young students.
New Teacher Qualification Standards for Early Childhood Educators
The policy has put in place new criteria for teacher qualifications and training in early childhood education. In the area of early childhood care teachers which include those that work with young students we have to study child psychology, early literacy, classroom management, and holistic development.
This is to make sure that educators are able to know how children think, process information, and act out in the world. We also see that they are able to put in place settings which are safe, supportive, and motivating for the kids.
Ongoing Professional Development and Assessment Reforms
NEP in 2020 puts forth the idea of continuous professional development. We see that which is put forth for teachers is to update their knowledge via training programs, digital resources and workshops.
They also present to them a range of assessment tools which fit early childhood requirements. The policy puts forth a framework of evaluation through observation, at regular intervals of time, and tracking growth in what they do. This in turn lessens the role of the traditional exams and also allows the teachers to see each child’s individual growth.
Assessment Reforms for Young Learners in the National Education Policy
Assessment is a key element in early education. The NEP 2020 puts forth a comprehensive and child centered approach to evaluation.
Shift from Rote Testing to Formative, Observation-Based Assessment
Traditional assessment tools do not work for young children. In the 2020 NEP we see a shift to formative assessments which are centered in day to day learning. Teachers watch in on what children do in activities, how they interact in groups, and during play.
This approach presents a better picture of each child’s talents, topics they are into, and which areas need work. Also it puts down stress and promotes natural learning.
Use of Child-Friendly Assessment Tools and Portfolios
Schools today are using what we may term child centered tools like visual checklists, worksheets, activity logs, and learning portfolios. Portfolios which are used to collect a child’s work over time and which in turn display their growth.
This is a more in depth and personal approach to assessment. Also it benefits parents which in turn they are able to better review their child’s progress beyond what is put forth in marks.
Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement Promoted by NEP 2020
NEP 2020 sees to it that early childhood education is for all kids. It brings out the value of equal opportunities and community support.
Access for Disadvantaged Groups and Localized Learning Models
The policy addresses the issues of children from remote, rural, and disadvantaged areas. It supports flexible school models, special support programs, and local learning materials.
This is what we are seeing is that education is made available to all children no matter their location or socio economic background.
Parental and Community Roles in Early Childhood Implementation
NEP 2020 sees to it that schools, parents and communities are partners. We encourage parents’ active participation in their child’s education. Schools will out with families through assemblies, workshops, and community events.
A supportive atmosphere which is also a fertile ground for a child’s emotional and social growth. When parents and teachers team up, we see children gain in confidence and do better in their academics.
Explore Early Learning Programs and NEP 2020–Aligned Options
Many in the academic field have put forth programs in alignment with NEP 2020. If parents are looking for a structured base to early learning, play based teaching settings, and a curriculum that is age appropriate, they may look into the NEP aligned early learning programs which we at Suryadatta National School are offering.
Conclusion
NEP 2020 ushers in a large-scale change in the design and delivery of early childhood education. It puts forth strong foundations, improving the quality of teaching, and that which we see as very important is that it makes learning a joyful experience. The policy also promotes experiential learning, multilingualism and inclusive education.
In the present time frame which is what NEP 2020 is all about, young students are being given a confidence boost, encouraged to be curious and made to develop basic skills. As these changes take root in our schools the Indian early education system is becoming more child centered, rich in content and prepared for what the future holds.
