The British School of Beijing, Shunyi Campus offers the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which is renowned for its active learning approach. This method is integral to early childhood education, providing young learners with a solid foundation for their future academic and personal development. At BSB Shunyi, active learning means children learn by doing — through a thoughtful blend of teacher-guided activities and independent exploration that develops both their academic skills and their love of learning.

Here are the top five benefits of active learning that we like to share with our parents at BSB Shunyi.

1. Enhanced Cognitive Development

Active learning significantly boosts cognitive development in young children. Through immersion, children engage in activities that require them to think critically, solve problems, and make decisions. These activities stimulate brain development and enhance cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, and executive function. For instance, when children participate in role-playing games, they often have to remember specific roles and rules, which helps improve their memory and organisational skills. By age five, 90% of a child's brain is developed, making these early years crucial for long-term success.

2. Improved Social Skills

One of the most profound benefits of active learning is the development of social skills. As children interact with their peers during these sessions, they learn essential social behaviours such as sharing, cooperation, and empathy. Social scenarios often require children to negotiate roles, resolve conflicts, and work together towards a common goal. These interactions are crucial for developing communication skills and understanding social norms. At BSB Shunyi, structured and unstructured activities are designed to foster these social interactions, helping children build strong relationships with their peers.

3. Emotional Regulation

Active learning provides a safe and supportive environment for children to express and manage their emotions. During these sessions, children can explore different feelings and learn how to cope with them in a healthy manner. For example, imaginative play allows children to act out various scenarios, helping them understand and regulate their emotions. This process is vital for developing emotional intelligence, which is essential for personal well-being and social interactions. BSB Shunyi's EYFS curriculum incorporates activities that encourage emotional expression and regulation, supporting children's emotional development.

4. Physical Development

Physical development is another key benefit of active learning. Activities such as outdoor play, dancing, and sports help children develop their motor skills, coordination, and overall physical health. These activities are not only enjoyable but also essential for building strength, flexibility, and endurance. At BSB Shunyi, the EYFS programme includes a variety of physical activities that promote healthy growth and development. By engaging in these activities, children learn the importance of physical fitness and develop habits that contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

5. Creativity and Imagination

Active learning nurtures creativity and imagination in young children. Through imaginative play, children can explore new ideas, create stories, and express themselves in unique ways. This type of play encourages children to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to problems. Creativity is a critical skill that contributes to academic success and personal fulfilment. BSB Shunyi's EYFS curriculum is designed to stimulate children's imagination through various creative activities, such as art, music, and storytelling. These activities provide opportunities for children to express their creativity and develop their imaginative thinking.

Additional Benefits of Active Learning

Beyond the top five benefits, active learning also fosters curiosity and independence in children. When children are given the freedom to explore and play, they naturally become more curious about the world around them. This curiosity drives their desire to learn and discover new things, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning. Additionally, active learning encourages children to make choices and take initiative, promoting independence and self-confidence. These skills are essential for personal development and success in later life.

The Importance of Early Years Education

The early years are a critical period in a child's development. Research shows that by age five, 90% of a child's brain is developed. This makes early childhood education incredibly important for setting the foundation for future academic and personal success. Active learning, as implemented in the EYFS at BSB Shunyi, ensures that children receive a comprehensive and enriching educational experience during these formative years. By focusing on cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and creative development, active learning prepares children for their future academic journey and personal growth.

Why not experience our Early Years for yourself?

Experience the benefits of active learning firsthand by attending the upcoming BSB Shunyi Early Years Experience Day.

This event offers a unique opportunity for parents and children to explore the EYFS programme, meet the dedicated educators, and see how play-based learning can make a difference in your child's early education. Join us to discover how BSB Shunyi will provide your child with a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.