Singapore's Nurturing Early Learners Framework: A Comprehensive Guide for Preschool Education

Nurturing Early Learners Framework in Singapore's Preschool Education

Last updated on July 22, 2024

Introduction to the NEL Framework

The Nurturing Early Learners NEL Framework is a comprehensive guide developed by the Ministry of Education MOE, which enhance the quality of early childhood education for children aged four to six years in Singapore. This framework serves as a foundation for MOE Kindergartens and helps shape preschool curricula across the country, aligning with global best practices.

The NEL Framework

This educational blueprint is designed to support teachers in delivering high-quality pre-school education, fostering an environment that promotes holistic development and joyous learning experiences for young children. As part of the framework, MOE Kindergartens collaborate with preschools nationwide, sharing resources and guidelines informed by this guidance document.

Key Messages of NEL Framework

1. Fostering a Joyful Learning Environment: The primary goal is to cultivate an atmosphere where children are excited about learning and eager to explore their surroundings.

2. Character Development: Preschool education should lay the groundwork for lifelong character building, encouraging values such as responsibility, respect, care, and honesty.

3. Collaborative Effort: Teachers play a pivotal role in partnering with parents to support children's learning processes.

The NEL Framework Overview

1. Understanding Young Learners: We believe preschoolers are inherently curious, active, joyful learners who thrive in diverse and multicultural settings.

2. Curriculum Development for Preschool Education MK: The framework guides the creation of MK curricula that focuses on nurturing children's holistic development through play-based learning.

3. Promoting Joyful Learning: By fostering a passion for knowledge and discovery, preschool education should spark excitement in young learners.

Key Outcomes of Preschool Education

The educational milestones established by the NEL Framework emphasize comprehensive child development:

1. Moral Values: Children should compreh right from wrong and demonstrate empathy and respect towards others.

2. Social Skills: They need to learn how to share, collaborate, and interact constructively in group settings.

3. Self-awareness: Building self-esteem and confidence through positive reinforcement and personal growth experiences.

Incorporating Values, Social Emotional Competencies

1. Character Building: Nurturing values such as responsibility, care, respect, and honesty shapes children's behavior and decisions in dly interactions.

2. Social Emotional Skills: These competencies enable children to understand themselves better, communicate effectively with others, and develop strong relationships.

Supporting Lifelong Learning Dispositions

1. Perseverance and Curiosity: These dispositions encourage a lifelong love for learning through persistence, reflection, creativity, exploration, and engagement in diverse activities.

Preschool Learning Goals

Teachers should m to help children achieve the following five core areas:

• Aesthetics Creative Expression

• Discovery of the World

• Health Motor Skills Development

• Language Literacy

• Numeracy

Strategies for Achieving Learning Goals

1. Implementing NEL Framework Principles: Teachers can utilize an integrated teaching approach, focusing on children's learning through play, fostering meaningful interactions, and encouraging knowledge construction.

2. Cultural and Social Integration: By including diverse perspectives in the curriculum, teachers can promote inclusivity and respect for cultural differences.

Support for Parents

Parents play a crucial role in reinforcing their child’s educational journey:

1. Balanced Development: Focus equally on cognitive skills e.g., math, reading and non-cognitive skills such as emotional intelligence.

2. Cooperation with Educators: Work closely with teachers to create a cohesive learning environment both at home and school.

3. Encouragement for Exploration: Provide opportunities for your child to explore interests beyond the classroom.

Educator Resources

For educators seeking deeper insights or additional resources on implementing NEL Framework principles, the NEL Portal offers comprehensive guidance and support materials.

The NEL Framework is a cornerstone in shaping Singapore's preschool education landscape. By adhering to its core messages and principles, educators can create dynamic learning environments that not only educate but also instill values of respect, responsibility, care, and honesty, setting strong foundations for lifelong learning.

Ministry of Education

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Copyright ? Government of Singapore. Updated on July 22, 2024
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