Nursery facts for kids
A nursery is a special school for young children. It's usually for kids between one and five years old. Think of it as their very first step in education. It happens before they go to primary school. In England, this first year is sometimes called FS1.
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What is a Nursery School?
A nursery school is a place where very young children learn and play. It helps them get ready for bigger schools. Children learn important skills like sharing, playing with others, and following simple rules. They also start to learn about numbers, letters, and the world around them.
Why are Nurseries Important?
Nurseries help children grow in many ways. They learn to be more independent. They also develop their social skills by playing with other kids. This early learning helps them do well when they start primary school. It's a fun and safe place for them to explore and discover new things.
Different Names for Nurseries
You might hear different names for a nursery school depending on where you are.
The Story of "Kindergarten"
The word kindergarten is a famous name for a nursery. It means "children's garden" in German. A man named Friedrich Fröbel created the first kindergarten in Germany in 1837. He believed that children should grow and learn like plants in a garden.
Other Common Names
Besides "kindergarten," you might hear other names like:
- Pre-school
- Playschool
- Playgroup
"Kindergarten" Around the World
The word "kindergarten" is used differently in various countries:
- In many non-English-speaking countries, "kindergarten" means a type of pre-school education.
- In the United States, Canada, and parts of Australia, "kindergarten" often means the first year of compulsory schooling. This is usually for children around five or six years old.
- In the United Kingdom, the word "kindergarten" is not commonly used for nurseries.
