Undermining Preschool Effects on Social Skills

A leading educational psychologist recently claimed that children who attend preschool demonstrate significantly better social skills by the time they enter kindergarten compared to those who do not attend preschool. The psychologist argues that preschool provides essential opportunities for peer interaction and structured social learning.

However, a few early childhood educators challenge this conclusion, stating that many children who do not attend preschool may have rich social interactions at home or in their neighborhoods. They suggest that varying home environments may play a substantial role in shaping children's social skills, potentially invalidating the psychologist's assertions.