In today’s fast-paced world, preparing young children for the future requires more than just teaching them basic academic skills. As parents and educators, we must ensure that children not only excel academically but also develop the critical life skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape. At SKY Preschool, we understand early education is the foundation of lifelong success. That is why we hosted a two-day seminar on April 15 and 16, 2025, to share valuable insights with parents. The seminar featured Ms. Michelle Dinh Jones, the Director of Education at SKY International Preschool Vietnam, a global leader in early childhood education.
This article shares some of the practical insights from the seminar for parents, and explains how SKY Preschool’s approach to early education nurtures children , helping them to not only develop into well-rounded individuals, but also prepares them for their uncertain and ever changing future.
Day 1: Play-Based Learning for a Changing World
The first day of the seminar focused on the child-led, play-based learning – an approach used at SKY International Preschool. In a world where change is constant, children must learn how to adapt, think critically, and collaborate with others. Ms. Michelle Dinh Jones highlighted how SKY’s play-based approach is designed to prepare children for these very challenges.
Why Play-Based Learning?
Research has shown that play is essential for cognitive, social, and emotional development. Through play, children explore the world around them, build problem-solving skills, and develop creativity. Learning through play is far more effective than traditional rote memorization methods, because it encourages active participation and critical thinking.
At SKY Preschool, play becomes the curriculum. Ms. Michelle explained how classrooms are designed to be immersive environments where children can engage in different activities. Each classroom is divided into distinct learning zones; Literacy, Numeracy, Sensory exploration, Art and Dramatic Play and Construction —where children can explore, wonder and solve everyday. These zones encourage the children to move freely throughout the class and create their own learning plan, making choices and managing their time to explore, learn, and create.
In a play-based learning environment, children are not just learning content; they are learning how to think, how to solve problems, and how to express themselves.
Aligning with Education 4.0: Preparing Children for the Future
Ms. Michelle also discussed aligning early childhood education with the World Economic Forum’s Education 4.0 framework. This framework focuses on preparing children for a future where 65% of today’s jobs will no longer exist in their current form by 2040. The future of work is uncertain, so it’s critical that children are equipped with the right skills—skills like creativity, communication, empathy, and resilience—that will help them adapt to an ever-changing world.
Education 4.0 encourages schools to think beyond traditional academic skills and prioritize life skills that will serve children throughout their lives. In a world driven by technology and global change, children need to understand how to collaborate with others, approach problems from different angles, and adapt quickly to new situations. Ms. Michelle emphasized that today’s learners need to become lifelong learners who are comfortable with change and can thrive in diverse environments.
Through SKY’s child-led, play-based curriculum
Children learn essential life skills. These skills empower them to navigate future challenges with confidence. In addition to the regular academic milestones, SKY prioritizes the development of soft skills such as teamwork, emotional intelligence, and global citizenship. These competencies prepare children to interact with diverse groups, solve problems collaboratively, and think critically about the world around them. Play-based learning creates a natural setting for children to experiment, innovate, and find solutions to real-world challenges, all of which align with the principles of Education 4.0.
Ms. Michelle explained, “The children we educate today will face challenges we cannot even predict. We are preparing them for a future where they must be flexible, resilient, and empathetic.” This emphasis on adaptability is vital, as today’s children will need to face a world that is continuously evolving—whether through technological advances or global social changes. By instilling these values early on, we help children build a strong foundation for the unpredictable future that lies ahead.
Empowering the Future: A Two-Day Seminar on Early Childhood Education at SKY Preschool
The second day of the seminar focused on a crucial aspect of early childhood development: the power of effective routines. Routines may seem simple, but they have a profound impact on a child’s emotional and psychological well-being. Ms. Michelle discussed how consistency in daily routines helps children feel safe, secure, and in control.
Why Routines Matter
All children, but especially very young ones, thrive on consistency. Having a predictable routine helps them understand the world around them and manage their emotions. When children know what to expect, they feel more confident and independent. Simple daily activities—such as getting dressed, eating meals, or tidying up—become opportunities for children to develop responsibility, autonomy, and emotional regulation.
Routines are not just about making life easier for parents. They are about helping children feel grounded and supported. Consistent routines teach children essential life skills, like managing time and emotions.
Building Independence Through Routines
One of the key takeaways from the second day of the seminar was how routines help children develop independence. Ms. Michelle discussed the importance of allowing children to take ownership of their daily tasks. By giving children the responsibility to complete simple routines on their own, parents and educators can help build their confidence and self-reliance.
At SKY Preschool, children are encouraged to perform tasks like putting away toys, dressing themselves, or cleaning up after meals. These seemingly small activities play a significant role in helping children develop a sense of responsibility and independence.
When children have consistent routines, they learn how to manage their time, take responsibility, and feel a sense of accomplishment.
SKY’s Commitment to a Nurturing the whole child
Throughout both days of the seminar, Ms. Michelle emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to education. SKY Preschool is committed to nurturing not only a child’s academic skills but also their physical, emotional, and social development. The school’s philosophy is based on the belief that children are capable of learning and growing in a supportive, stimulating environment.
This philosophy extends to the design of the school’s facilities. Every classroom and learning space at SKY is thoughtfully designed to create a rich learning environment where children can engage in creative activities, interact with their peers, and explore new concepts. The school also features dedicated spaces like an art room, a music room, a light and shadow room, a cooking lab, and even a rooftop gardengarden!— aAreas where children can engage in hands-on learning and explore their interests.
By offering a variety of learning experiences, SKY helps children develop into well-rounded individuals ready for the challenges ahead.
Diversity and Global Citizenship: Learning from Each Other
SKY Preschool’s international community is another key element of its educational approach. With students from over 35 nationalities, SKY provides a truly multicultural learning environment where children learn not only from their teachers but also from their peers. This exposure to diverse perspectives helps children develop global citizenship, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for cultural differences.
Ms. Michelle spoke about the benefits of a diverse classroom, explaining how it allows children to explore different viewpoints, understand global issues, and work collaboratively with peers from different backgrounds. This approach fosters social awareness, teaching children to respect and appreciate the differences that make us unique.
Technology and Tactile Learning: Preparing Children for the Real World
In an era dominated by technology, it’s easy to assume that screens and devices are essential tools for learning. However, SKY Preschool takes a different approach. While technology is used to support teacher collaboration and planning, the school intentionally avoids screen time in the classroom. Instead, children engage in tactile learning experiences, such as working with physical objects, using traditional learning methods like the Keeper Alphabet, and interacting with the world around them.
We believe that hands-on learning and real-world interactions are more effective than passive screen time. Children need to connect with the physical world and develop their fine motor skills to thrive.
Preparing for the Future: A Shared Responsibility
The seminar concluded with a message of shared responsibility. As parents and educators, it is our job to protect childhood while preparing children for the future. The world is changing, and the skills children need to succeed are evolving as well. By focusing on emotional well-being, independence, creativity, and critical thinking, we can ensure that children are not just ready for school but for life.
The future is unpredictable, but by fostering a love of learning, resilience, and empathy, we can equip our children to lead successful, fulfilling lives.
Conclusion
The two-day seminar at SKY Preschool offered valuable insights into how we can better support our children’s growth and development. By embracing a play-based learning approach, fostering effective routines, and promoting diversity, SKY Preschool is laying the foundation for children to become capable, confident individuals ready for an exciting future. As parents and educators, we have the privilege and responsibility to guide our children through this journey. Together, we can empower the next generation to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
If you haven’t yet joined the SKY Preschool community, now is the perfect time to take the next step in your child’s educational journey. Our child-led, play-based curriculum and strong commitment to developing essential life skills offer a unique opportunity for your child to grow in an environment that prepares them for the future. Don’t miss the chance to provide your child with a head start in their education! Visit us today to learn more and enroll your child at SKY Preschool—where we’re shaping tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and global citizens.
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