How Nurseries in Abu Dhabi Prepare Children for Big School Admissions

The Foundation Stage in UAE Schools

In the UAE, the early years of schooling are part of what is called the Foundation Stage (FS), which is designed to prepare children for primary school. This stage, which typically includes FS1 and FS2, focuses on laying the academic, social, and emotional foundations that children will build upon as they progress through their school years.

The Foundation Stage is the first formal phase of the national curriculum in the UAE. It focuses on fostering well-rounded development in children, ensuring that they develop the essential skills needed for primary school. For children in FS1, the emphasis is on developing early literacy and numeracy skills, but also on social, emotional, and physical development. FS1 is a vital year where children learn the basic skills needed to integrate into big school settings, including managing themselves in a structured classroom environment, following instructions, and beginning to engage with their peers.

Play-Based Learning Activities for Preschoolers

One of the most effective methods used by nurseries in Abu Dhabi to prepare children for big school is play-based learning. In early childhood education, play is a vital learning tool that helps children develop cognitively, emotionally, and socially. Research has shown that children learn best when they engage in hands-on activities that allow them to explore, experiment, and problem-solve.

Nurseries use a wide range of play-based learning activities for preschoolers that encourage curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. These activities can include everything from building with blocks and playing pretend to arts and crafts, singing, and outdoor play. The key is that these activities allow children to learn through exploration and experience rather than simply being taught in a traditional, academic manner. This approach aligns closely with the foundation stage in UAE schools, which emphasises early childhood education that focuses on play and hands-on learning. The Foundation Stage, which includes FS1 and FS2, encourages similar developmental processes where children learn foundational skills in a nurturing, engaging environment.

Types of Play-Based Learning Activities

Here are a few types of play-based learning activities that educators can try:

These play-based learning activities for preschoolers are not only fun, but they are also deeply educational. They help children develop skills that will be crucial as they move into formal schooling, such as following directions, working collaboratively, and developing concentration and focus.

Social Emotional Learning in Preschool

Another key aspect of preparation for big school is social emotional learning (SEL), which is fundamental in helping young children understand and manage their emotions, form positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Social-emotional learning preschool programs are designed to help children develop empathy, self-regulation, and resilience—skills that are critical for success both in and out of the classroom.

Nurseries in Abu Dhabi integrate SEL into their daily routines, offering children opportunities to practice these skills in a safe, structured environment. SEL is particularly important as children transition to big school, where they will encounter new social dynamics, larger groups of peers, and more complex emotional experiences.

Key Components of SEL in Preschool

Take note of these components for SEL learning in a preschool:

Through structured activities and guided interactions, social-emotional learning preschool programs lay the foundation for healthy social interactions and emotional well-being. These skills will help children navigate their school environments, build strong friendships, and cope with the challenges they encounter as they grow. Educators often ask, How does FS1 develop social skills? By encouraging group play, turn-taking, and cooperative activities, FS1 helps children learn the basics of communication, empathy, and conflict resolution, which are essential for building lasting relationships and succeeding in future educational settings.

How Does FS1 Develop Social Skills?

FS1 is a crucial year in a child’s development, as it is the first time they are exposed to formal schooling. During this stage, children focus heavily on developing social skills. FS1 in UAE schools aims to create a social environment where children can interact with their peers, learn the importance of cooperation, and practice conflict resolution.

In FS1, children typically engage in activities that encourage socialising and working as a group.

Through these experiences, they learn how to:

Building Confidence for Big School Admissions

The transition from nursery to big school can be intimidating for young children, but nurseries play a pivotal role in building their confidence and independence. By offering structured routines, play-based learning, and SEL activities, nurseries help children develop the emotional resilience needed to succeed in school.

The exposure to FS1 activities also helps children get comfortable with the expectations of primary school, such as sitting at a desk, following a more structured schedule, and participating in group activities. As children grow in their social and emotional skills, they develop a sense of belonging and confidence, which makes the transition to big school much easier.

What to Look for When Choosing a Nursery in Abu Dhabi

When considering a nursery for your child in Abu Dhabi, it's essential to find one that aligns with your educational goals and provides a nurturing environment.

Here are some things to consider: