Different types of education offer different perspectives to a child, shaping their mind in unique ways. Before your child enters pre-primary, it is essential to understand the different teaching methods available. With the evolution of education, various approaches have been adopted. One such method integrated by ICSE schools is Montessori education. What is Montessori Education, and How Does It Influence Your Child? Montessori education is not rocket science—it simply defines a child-centric teaching method that emphasizes hands-on learning, self-directed activities, and collaborative play. Here’s how Montessori education influences pre-primary kids: Prepared Environment Montessori classrooms are designed to encourage independent exploration with appropriate materials. This is one of the best ways to ensure that children become interactive and enjoy their learning journey. Multi-Sensory Learning Children engage in practical life activities, sensorial experiences, and language development at their own pace. Freedom with Structure While children have the freedom to choose their activities, there is a structured framework in place to ensure a well-rounded learning experience. How Does Montessori Influence Pre-Primary Kids in ICSE Schools? Montessori learning blends seamlessly with the ICSE curriculum, providing children with the right foundation for learning. Here are some key ways Montessori methods influence young learners: Encourages Independent Thinking Montessori activities foster problem-solving skills and decision-making, helping children develop confidence in their abilities. This boosts their creativity and critical thinking skills. Hands-On Learning Approach Interactive tools such as Montessori blocks, sandpaper letters, and number rods help children understand concepts in a concrete way before moving to abstract learning. This makes education engaging and fun, encouraging active participation. Stronger Foundation in Literacy & Numeracy With a structured phonics-based approach and practical math activities, children develop strong reading and number skills early on. Social & Emotional Development Mixed-age classrooms and collaborative learning promote teamwork, patience, and respect for peers. Smooth Transition to Formal Education Since Montessori nurtures curiosity and self-discipline, children adapt seamlessly to structured learning in higher ICSE grades. Conclusion The Montessori-ICSE blend is a game-changer for pre-primary education, offering a nurturing, engaging, and structured learning environment. By fostering independence, creativity, and critical thinking, this approach helps children develop essential life skills while preparing them for future academic success. At Friends’ Academy, we understand the importance of implementing innovative teaching methods to ensure our students receive the best learning experience. Looking for a pre-primary school that embraces Montessori learning within an ICSE framework? Choose Friends’ Academy and give your child an early start filled with curiosity, exploration, and growth!
Teachers are often referred to as second parents, but does that mean parents should take a backseat in their child’s education? Absolutely not! We at Friends’ Academy, ICSE school, actively encourage parental involvement in various school activities. Beyond annual school fests and parent-teacher meetings, numerous opportunities allow parents to engage with their children’s academic and extracurricular journey, fostering their overall success. How Parent-School Collaboration Enhances a Child’s Growth at Friends’ Academy? Establishing Goals for Academic Success While teachers track student progress at school, parents play an equally crucial role at home. Consistent communication between teachers and parents ensures that students receive the necessary guidance and encouragement. At Friends’ Academy, our teachers actively engage with parents through WhatsApp and other communication channels to provide regular updates about their child’s progress. This proactive approach helps align educational goals and fosters a supportive learning environment. Open Communication Between Parents and Teachers Transparency is key to student development. Parents should share important details about their child’s school experience, challenges, and achievements, allowing teachers to offer better support. At Friends’ Academy, we prioritize continuous communication with parents, ensuring they are well informed about their child’s academic performance and emotional well-being. Encouraging Parents to Participate in Activities Parents play an integral role in shaping their child’s experiences. Friends’ Academy, being ICSE School, has designed our events in a manner that actively allows parents to participate alongside their children in events such as Grandparents’ Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Sports Day, and Cultural Day. These engagements not only create cherished memories but also help parents observe their child’s interests and talents, fostering stronger family bonds. Supporting Learning at Home Education extends beyond the classroom. Our teachers guide parents on how to assist their children with homework, develop strong study habits, and reinforce essential life skills. By incorporating storytelling, teaching manners, and problem-solving techniques, parents contribute to a child’s holistic development. Effective collaboration between teachers and parents ensures that children receive consistent support both at school and at home. The Power of Collective Effort When parents, teachers, and students work together, the learning experience becomes more interactive and impactful. Regardless of whether your child studies in an ICSE school or another board, parental involvement is crucial for their academic and personal growth. By staying engaged, parents can better understand their child’s needs and provide timely support. Want to learn more about how we keep children engaged through various activities? Click Here. Looking for an ICSE School? Friends’ Academy is now accepting applications for the 2025-26 academic year. Contact us today!
Education plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s future, but it goes beyond academic excellence. A well-rounded education ensures that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in all aspects of life. ICSE schools are renowned for their comprehensive curriculum, fostering soft skills, social exposure, intellectual growth, and physical well-being. Does Holistic Development in Children Matter? Yes, holistic development is essential, as it lays the foundation for a child to grow into a well-rounded individual. This approach nurtures multiple dimensions of development—academic, emotional, social, and physical. Skills such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving are integral to this growth. ICSE schools integrate holistic development through a balanced curriculum, innovative teaching methodologies, extracurricular activities, and moral education. While the curriculum remains consistent across ICSE schools, the key differentiator lies in how they nurture students beyond academics. How ICSE Schools Nurture Holistic Development? Strong Focus on Communication and Languages Communication is a vital life skill, and ICSE schools emphasize enhancing students’ language proficiency. Various activities, such as debates, elocution, storytelling, and creative writing, help build confidence in students. Besides English, Hindi, and regional languages, ICSE schools often offer foreign languages, giving students an edge in global communication and opportunities for higher education abroad. Encouragement of Practical Learning ICSE schools integrate hands-on learning experiences through experiments, research assignments, and projects. Well-equipped science laboratories, interactive teaching methods, and computer labs encourage students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios. This approach fosters innovation, creativity, and analytical thinking, which are essential for future careers. Focus on Moral and Ethical Education Character-building is an integral part of ICSE education. Schools instill values such as integrity, empathy, and responsibility through moral education, storytelling, and discussions. This helps shape socially responsible individuals who contribute positively to society and develop strong ethical foundations. Comprehensive and Balanced Curriculum ICSE schools follow an extensive syllabus that promotes deep learning and conceptual clarity. Unlike rote learning, ICSE focuses on understanding subjects in depth, making students proficient in languages, sciences, mathematics, and social sciences. This rigorous approach helps develop analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential for real-world applications. Emphasis on Co-curricular and Extracurricular Activities ICSE schools go beyond textbooks to provide students with opportunities in arts, dance, music, drama, and sports. These activities enhance cognitive skills, leadership abilities, teamwork, and emotional intelligence. They also foster self-expression and confidence, preparing students for diverse career paths. The Role of Schools and Parents in Holistic Development While holistic development benefits children immensely, ICSE schools play a crucial role in implementing it effectively. However, the responsibility doesn’t lie solely with the schools; parents and teachers must work together to ensure a supportive learning environment. We at Friends’ Academy understand that children spend a significant portion of their time in school; it becomes imperative for educators to instill values, skills, and knowledge that shape their future. If you are looking for an education that goes beyond textbooks and fosters all-round growth, enrolling your child in an ICSE school could be the best decision for their future. The blend of academics, extracurriculars, and ethical learning ensures they emerge as empowered individuals, prepared for success in every sphere of life.
ICSE Board School Admissions are likely to start next year, but preparation for parents begins early. The admission process may seem overwhelming, but it becomes manageable if you’re aware of certain key aspects. If you’re a parent looking to help your child gain admission to an ICSE Board School, here are a few tips to make the preparation process smoother for both you and your child. 1. Know the Curriculum Understanding the ICSE Board curriculum is crucial. Each school has its own set of priorities, facilities, and academic standards. Knowing the ICSE Board curriculum helps you focus on developing your child’s analytical and reasoning skills, along with a deep understanding of core subjects. The curriculum emphasizes English, Science, and Mathematics. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the integration of practical learning, which differentiates ICSE from other boards. 2. Identify the Right ICSE School Selecting the right ICSE school in Mumbai can be challenging with several options available. Start by researching potential schools, reviewing their admission criteria, and checking parent and student feedback. Also, evaluate the proposed curriculum to ensure that the school offers a holistic development plan. Involve your child in the process, allowing them to participate in choosing their preferred schools. 3. Start the Admission Process Early Starting the admission process early ensures you’re aware of deadlines, entrance exams, and necessary preparations. Although the process typically begins in January or February for the academic year 2025-26, you can begin contacting ICSE schools earlier to stay updated on deadlines and other requirements. 4. Prepare for the Entrance Exam Many ICSE schools require an entrance exam, particularly for higher grades. Your child will need to focus on core subjects like English and Mathematics. The difficulty level of the entrance exam depends on the grade for which they are applying. Here are a few preparation tips: Study Basics: Focus on fundamental concepts in English, Math, and Science. Practice Papers: Assist your child with previous years’ papers or sample questions to get familiar with the format. Time Management: Help your child develop time management skills to ensure they complete the test within the allotted time. 5. Encourage Reading and Communication Skills ICSE schools place a strong emphasis on English proficiency. For younger children, focus on foundational skills like reading stories, learning the alphabet, and improving cognitive abilities. For older children seeking primary or secondary admissions, encourage them to read books regularly, which helps improve their overall knowledge and communication skills—important aspects of the interview process. Written practice is equally essential. 6. Keep a Record of Extracurricular Activities ICSE schools emphasize holistic education, and it’s important for your child to be active in both academics and extracurricular activities. If your child is involved in sports, arts, music, or community service, collect certificates or records of participation. This will help them continue developing their hobbies and showcase their well-rounded profile. 7. Develop a Routine Consistency is key, so establishing a structured routine for your child is important. A balanced lifestyle that includes physical activity, relaxation, and study time will foster better time management and reduce stress. As your child follows this routine, you’ll notice positive behavioral changes that will benefit their future. 8. Emphasize Confidence and Positivity Lastly, help your child stay positive and confident throughout the admission process. It’s important to remind them that this is just the beginning of their educational journey. Encourage them to do their best, but also let them know that the outcome does not define their abilities. If you have possible resources you can enroll your child in mock interviews or practice tests. Conclusion Preparing your child for ICSE Board School admissions requires a blend of academic readiness, personality development, and an understanding of the school’s values. Start early, stay organized, and ensure your child is mentally and academically prepared. With the right support, they’ll be ready to take this important step towards a bright future. At Friends’ Academy, we understand the importance of timely and effective preparation. We offer multiple resources to guide you and your child through the admission process. If you’re seeking assistance or looking to secure admission at our school, you can connect with us here.
Pre-primary school is a foundational base for your child, hence, making an essential decision such as choosing the right school becomes necessary. With several boards, and the curriculum choosing or knowing any curriculum and its offering becomes necessary. Each one is developed with a specific perspective and serves the needs of formal education. As a parent, you need to know several things and understand what your child will learn when seeking pre-primary admissions. Here is what the ICSE Pre-Primary Curriculum has to offer: 1. Social and Emotional Development Pre-primary students are usually young, and the curriculum is designed in a way that prepares them to step into the real world. To aid their social and emotional development, the syllabus includes topics that encourage interaction with peers, understanding of emotions, confidence building, and developing a positive self-image. 2. Boosting Creativity The ICSE pre-primary school curriculum is created after considering multiple aspects, allowing the integration of extracurricular activities. Activities like painting, drawing, music, and dancing help children express their feelings. This is one of the best activities some schools may not emphasize, but it plays an essential role. 3. Physical Development As mentioned, pre-primary students are often engaged in extra-curricular activities, making them more likely to experience physical development. Activities such as running, jumping, and climbing help enhance motor skills while drawing and painting assist in developing good eye-hand coordination. 4. Exploring via Activities Although pre-primary students have a limited syllabus, the teaching methods in ICSE schools offer a generous approach to learning. Incorporating the Play and Learn Method helps students memorize quickly. The activities included encouraging the use of the senses and helping students understand how to use their bodies to perform different tasks. 5. Learn, Learn, and Learn It is a common goal for parents to provide their children with a good education. The ICSE Board curriculum, however, focuses on helping children learn in a fun manner while developing the necessary skills to face the real world. Numeracy, alphabet, reading, writing, and communication skills are foundational and help your child understand and solve problems. This approach fosters creativity, curiosity, and analytical thinking. Providing a Nurturing Environment In addition to these core areas, a quality pre-primary school should provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment that fosters children’s overall development. Look for schools that prioritize play-based learning, small class sizes, and qualified teachers. Also, check the amenities that help children explore different activities and discover new interests. Choosing the Right School When selecting a pre-primary school, consider factors such as the school’s curriculum, facilities, teachers, and reputation. Visiting the school and speaking with teachers and parents can also provide valuable insights. Remember, a strong foundation in pre-primary education can set your child up for success in their future academic endeavors.
The Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) board is well-known for its comprehensive and balanced curriculum, which emphasizes practical knowledge and analytical skills. Parents who wish to enroll their children in ICSE affiliated schools need to understand the eligibility criteria. This guide will help you navigate the process, including situations where students transfer midterm or start fresh at a new term. Eligibility Criteria for ICSE Admissions 2025-26 in Mumbai Age Requirements One of the major factors that plays an important role is the age requirement. A certain age is required to start the educational journey, and hence, you must know this before seeking admission. For nursery school admissions 2025-26, a child must be between 3-5 years. This age can vary depending on the school’s policy, as a few schools allow children up to the age of 6. For primary school admissions, the age must be 6-14 years old. For secondary school admissions, a child must be 14-18 years old. Though these are the basics, there is a possibility that the conditions might differ depending on the school’s policy. Previous Academic Records Academic reports play an important role and help the school understand the ability of the child to adjust to new surroundings. If the child is seeking fresh admissions (i.e., from the nursery), previous-year academic records are not applicable. If the child is transitioning from another school or educational board (CBSE or State Board), the previous year’s academic performance helps the school better understand the student. There are cases when transfer certificates and letters of recommendation are also needed from the previous school. Documentation This is a crucial aspect, and without documents, the possibility of acquiring admissions is nil. Hence, documents like birth certificates, transfer certificates, proof of residence, passport-sized photographs of parents and students, and a few other documents are needed. If there are any additional documents required, schools will inform you in advance. Entrance Test and Interviews Entrance tests and interviews play an important role in the admissions process. Students, especially after Class 5, are required to take these tests. This is done to assess the academic level and readiness of the child. For primary classes, the interview focuses more on cognitive abilities and basic learning skills. While the eligibility criteria for admissions are the same as mentioned above, there are a few steps that parents might need to take. Steps for Parents Start by researching trusted and top ICSE schools in Mumbai or near your area. While searching, you will find the eligibility criteria of each school. Prepare documentation early: Gathering all the necessary documents is crucial to seeking admission. The child’s academic records, birth certificates, ID proofs, and transfer certificates are the main ones you need. Bridge the Gap: If your child is moving from another board or midterm, discuss with the school any extra academic support or bridge programs that may be offered. Involve your child: Prepare your child for the new transitions by taking them on school visits when you go. Discuss the new things that are coming their way and make them comfortable with the change. ICSE school admissions require careful planning. Knowing the eligibility criteria is not enough; one must also understand the different factors that contribute to the academic growth of the child. Staying informed about the eligibility criteria and ensuring that all documents are in place makes the admission process smoother. As the end of 2024 approaches, we at Friends’ Academy understand the challenges parents face when looking for admissions at ICSE schools. While the admission process can seem overwhelming, we now offer online admissions and digital transfer options to make everything more convenient. It becomes easier for parents to gather the information and then reach out to schools to secure admission. Want to know more about seeking admission at the best ICSE school in Mumbai? Click here.
Choosing a pre-primary school for your child is a crucial decision that can impact their early development and education. With so many options available, it’s important to determine the best fit. While some look for the best ICSE pre-primary school, others look for convenient options that help build a strong foundation for their child. Is pre-primary school the same as nursery? Although pre-primary and nursery school are often used interchangeably due to a lack of understanding, both terms are distinct but cater to childhood education. Here are some key differences to help you understand the importance of pre-primary school and nursery: Pre-primary This is an educational arrangement where children are typically introduced to formal education. Skills and concepts are taught to ensure a strong foundation is laid from the beginning. Nursery Usually, children aged 3 years are categorized for nursery schooling. It emphasizes socializing, basic motor skills, exposure to learning through play, and the learning method. While looking for a pre-primary school for your child, here are the things you must check for: Well-trained faculty and friendly teachers Teachers are close to the children at a pre-primary school and are likely to influence their thinking. It’s important that teachers not only teach but also make children comfortable, understand their behavior, and be ready to deal with challenges. Parents can connect with the parents of ex-students to learn about the faculty, teachers, and methodology. This helps parents understand the school, teachers, and teaching methods better. Teaching Method Pre-primary schools in Mumbai are further categorized according to the State board, CBSE, and ICSE board school syllabus. While the methodologies to teach students may differ, they should be engaging to ensure the child actively participates and enjoys the learning process. Understanding the teaching method incorporated allows you to understand how well the children are understanding, and the same can be adapted further. Understanding the infrastructure Pre-primary schools usually have a good combination of play and learning areas. This allows students to learn in different environments. Parents can also inquire about the classrooms, play areas, and safety measures taken by the school to keep students safe. Parent Involvement Activities Most pre-primary schools in Mumbai have now started involving parents in different activities to encourage parental involvement during their growing age. Open communication is also important. Before admitting your child to the ICSE pre-primary school, check if they promote parental involvement through communication channels to receive feedback and updates. Location and Accessibility Even if you find the best ICSE pre-primary school in India, it’s not included if the location is not convenient. Hence, do check the proximity. Also, don’t forget to inquire about commuting options such as school buses or daycare services. Cost and Affordability Compare the fees of schools to understand the different things they offer. The fees might include not only tuition fees but also extracurricular activities, uniforms, and other supplies required throughout the year. While considering the options, make sure you have a dedicated checklist. This allows you to make an informed decision and stick to the few things that help you make filtering easy. At Friends’ Academy, we understand the importance of pre-primary school admissions. We assist parents with every detail to help them through the process and understand the benefits of admitting their child to our school. If you want to know how our pre-primary section students are engaged, you can click here and visit our social media.
Pre-primary is the stepping stone of a child’s educational journey. This beginning builds the foundation for learning and development. As a parent, you may feel overwhelmed while preparing your child for the future. To ease this process, we are here to offer a few tips that will help prepare you and your child for successful pre-primary school admission. 1. Develop Essential Skills While preparing your child for pre-primary school admission, it’s important to teach them a few essential skills. Here are some key skills to focus on: Language, Vocabulary, and Listening: Practicing language skills, vocabulary, and attentive listening helps improve language abilities. This makes it easier for children to grasp new concepts, stay focused in class, and communicate effectively. Motor Skills: Activities like drawing, painting, and cutting help develop fine motor skills and improve hand-eye coordination. Physical Activity: Encouraging your child to engage in physical activities such as jumping, running, and playing helps them develop coordination and balance. 2. Teach the Importance of Greetings and Communication There are times when your child might struggle to communicate, often because they are unsure of how to express themselves. Teaching your child the importance of communication with teachers and friends is crucial. Good manners, such as greeting teachers and friends, leave a positive impression and open up opportunities for communication. Small gestures like these can make a significant difference during admissions. 3. Prepare for Interviews and Assessments Some schools conduct informal interviews or assessments to evaluate a child’s readiness. These usually involve tasks like identifying colors, counting numbers, or naming common objects. Tip: Practice these skills at home to help your child feel more comfortable and confident during the interview process. 4. Visit the School Together If you are in the process of shortlisting schools, take your child along for school visits. Familiarizing them with the new environment can build excitement and reduce anxiety. Your child will get a glimpse of the new world they are about to enter, exploring classrooms, play areas, and other facilities. Tip: Talk positively about the school and help your child begin their new journey on a positive note. Conclusion Preparing for pre-primary school admission is a gradual process that requires emotional, social, and academic preparation. Encourage your child’s independence, introduce them to basic concepts, and establish daily routines. These steps will ensure a smooth transition into pre-primary school, enriching their experience and helping them embrace this new chapter with confidence.
Excited about your child’s first day at pre-primary? But does it also come with anxiety and fear of keeping your kids away and hearing them cry while dropping them off at school? Well, dropping your child off for their first day at pre-primary school is challenging, but if your kid has already been to nursery school, this can be managed. Here are some tips to make the first day of pre-primary school memorable. 1. Talk to them about school If your kid has been to nursery school, there are minimal problems you will experience. However, since your child is still small, you can talk to them about school during the summer vacation. This helps them get excited to experience something new. Show them pictures of schools, introduce them to some activities, help them socialize, and, if possible, introduce them to teachers. You can also show them videos of the fun that happens at school or explain the typical school routine. 2. Try to keep them away for some time Pre-primary school hours are a bit longer compared to nursery school timings. Hence, after a certain point, your child might start missing you or may not enjoy being at school. Try to reduce the time you spend with them beforehand. This helps make the transition easier and prepares both you and your child to deal with separation for a while. It also allows your child to get comfortable with the new environment more easily. 3. Help your child socialize Now that your child is taking a step toward the foundational years, they should be introduced to more people. You might already have a list of friends from nursery school, so you can arrange playdates with their friends, encourage them to make new friends, and teach them greetings and how to introduce themselves to new people. This is a trusted way to help your child meet different people and feel comfortable communicating with them. Socializing also helps your child express their feelings without getting upset or anxious. Explain to them that there will always be someone to support them as they start something new. 4. Start a new routine Starting pre-primary school means adapting to a new routine. It’s not just about waking up or going to school but also encouraging your child to get dressed in their uniform, wear their own shoes, and engage in small activities that will keep them active and help them adapt to the new routine easily. One of the most important things you need to plan is the pick-up and drop-off routine, so your child knows what to expect. Make sure they know where to go if you don’t arrive on time to pick them up. 5. Try to meet the teachers Although most schools don’t allow much time to meet with teachers, you can take your child during pre-primary admissions so they know who their teacher is. Introducing them to the teacher beforehand can make your child feel more comfortable on the first day. 6. Say goodbye On the first day of pre-primary school, it’s important to say goodbye to your child and reassure them that you will be back to pick them up. Don’t let your child dwell on the goodbyes; instead, make sure the goodbye is warm and reassuring, helping your child feel at ease in their new environment. At Friends’ Academy, one of the best ICSE Schools in Mumbai, we understand how difficult it is to see your child cry on the first day of pre-primary school. This can be a hard experience for both the child and the parents. We know the importance of caring for your child, which is why we have dedicated teachers and staff to ensure they are safe and in the right hands. Want to comfort your child with the school activities they will be participating in? Check out our pre-primary school activities!
For parents, sending their children to the nursery or preschool is a milestone. This is the first step of the educational journey, and if you’re looking for nursery admission 2024-25,one has to navigate various things. While considering various options, one needs to consider a few essentials that help you finalize the mandatory things that can be considered. 5 things to know before getting your child nursery school admission Looking for the right fit Every nursery school has its own unique culture, teaching methods, and philosophy. It’s essential to choose a school that aligns with your values and expectations. While considering nursery admission, you can look for a play-based or academic-oriented school. If you’re looking for a play-based school, ICSE board schools are reliable options. Early planning is key Nursery School Admission typically begins at the age of 3 or 4, depending on the school’s policies. It’s never too early to start planning. Research and create a list of the top ICSE board schools in advance. Few reputed schools do have a waiting list, so it’s better to learn about the process early. Also, if you’re looking to admit your kid during the mid-terms, you can inquire about the same with the schools to know the possibilities. Check the application requirements Each school’s nursery admission has its own application process and requirements. Some may include interviews or assessments for both parents and children. Ensure you meet all the requirements and adhere to the application deadlines. Prepare your child for interviews or assessments to ensure the further requirements are fulfilled. Financial Considerations Nursery school fees vary widely, and this helps you choose the schools as per your budget. While some public nursery schools are free, many private and international schools come with a significant cost. If you’re considering top ICSE board schools, check your budget and explore available financial aid or scholarship options if necessary. Train your child We at Friends’ Academy would suggest training your kids well with the necessary instructions. Grooming them is important to get them admitted to the school. Also, you can prepare a few questions that can help your child ace the interview smoothly. Mentioned are the 5 basic tips that can be followed to get nursery school admission for a little one. If you’re still confused and want to know the best ICSE schools you can admit your kid to Friends’ Academy. Also, if you have queries about the admissions, you can contact us, for nursery admissions 2024-25.
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