Early childhood education teachers play a crucial role in shaping the minds of young children and preparing them for future academic success. These dedicated educators work tirelessly to create a nurturing and stimulating environment where preschoolers can learn and grow. In Brunei, early childhood education (ECE) focuses on children between the ages of three and five, providing them with the foundational skills they need to succeed in primary school and beyond.
One of the key aspects of teaching preschoolers is the need for adaptability. Eleyina binti Sabtu, an education officer and preschool teacher at Amo Primary School, emphasizes the importance of being flexible and responsive to the needs of young children. Preschoolers have unique daily routines and attention spans, and teachers must be prepared to adjust their lesson plans accordingly. Despite the challenges, Eleyina finds teaching preschoolers to be incredibly rewarding, citing her love for watching children grow and learn.
Patience and discipline are essential qualities for preschool teachers, as Khatijah binti Hussein from Mulaut Primary School explains. Many preschoolers enter school with little to no knowledge of literacy or numeracy, making it crucial for teachers to provide them with the necessary skills to succeed in primary school. Khatijah highlights the importance of using a blended-learning approach, incorporating technology and traditional teaching methods to engage students and enhance their learning experience.
Ermawaty binti Yacub, a preschool teacher at Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran Mohd Yusof Primary School, brings a unique perspective to early childhood education. Having previously worked as an officer for the ECE Unit of the Ministry of Education, Ermawaty understands the challenges of balancing academic and personal well-being for students, as well as the administrative responsibilities that come with being an educator. She emphasizes the physical demands of teaching preschoolers, noting the importance of being physically strong and actively engaging with students through play-based learning.
Lily Herni binti Haji Mohsin, a preschool teacher and literacy local coach at Pengiran Kesuma Negara Bukit Beruang Primary School, offers valuable advice for aspiring ECE teachers. With 26 years of teaching experience, Lily stresses the importance of dedicating oneself to helping young children develop into competent learners. She encourages future ECE teachers to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact on their students‘ lives.
In conclusion, early childhood education teachers play a vital role in shaping the future of our children. Their dedication, patience, and commitment to providing a nurturing learning environment are essential for the cognitive and creative growth of preschoolers. By sharing their experiences and tips, ECE teachers in Brunei are helping to drive education transformation and ensure that our youngest learners have the best possible start in life.