Unlike machines, humans have a level of intelligence that is unique. Human Intelligence (HI) is the cognitive capacity to learn from experiences, adapt to changing situations, and comprehend and apply abstract concepts. At Cambridge Pre-school, children will develop HI by learning about Executive Function (EF), Character Development and Multiple Intelligences (MI).
EXECUTIVE FUNCTION (EF)
EF is a set of neurocognitive skills that function as the brain’s control of action, thought and emotion. EF skills include working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, planning, organising, and problem-solving. These skills are essential for us to achieve goals, adapt to new or changing situations and challenges, and manage social interactions and relationships. Research has shown that EF skills are better predictors of success in academics and in life, even more so than IQ tests!
The good thing about EF is that it can be developed over time through regular practice. Cambridge Pre-school cultivates EF skills through games and hands-on activities. We assess children using an award-winning research-based tool designed to measure EF skills through a short and engaging digital game. This gives our teachers an in-depth look at children’s EF abilities and progression over the years, so we can work together with parents to enhance each child’s EF skills at home and in school.
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT (CD)
Having resilience and a positive attitude will enable children to thrive and persevere in any difficult situation. Our Character Development Programme aims to develop good personal habits and positive dispositions in children. These are taught both explicitly and implicitly in the classroom.
From K1, we extend this by emphasising the development of self-awareness and self-management in children through our “Wonderful Me!” curriculum. Children will learn to identify their personality traits and recognise strengths and responses to tasks, people, authority, knowledge, and stress. Our curriculum also creates an awareness of individual limitations and how to overcome them in various situations.
MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES (MI)
Professor Howard Gardner from Harvard University’s famous Theory of Multiple Intelligences states that every child has eight types of intelligences:
• Bodily-kinesthetic Intelligence
• Linguistic Intelligence
• Interpersonal Intelligence
• Intrapersonal Intelligence
• Logical-mathematical Intelligence
• Musical Intelligence
• Naturalist Intelligence
• Spatial Intelligence
Some intelligences are more dominant than the others. To develop each child’s unique talents, Cambridge Pre-school ensures that varied activities exercise these eight intelligences, strengthening the dominant ones while awakening the less dominant ones.
Take this opportunity to sign up for a school tour at your nearest centre and find out more about our Curriculum.
