‘Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.’ Albert Einstein.

As parents we are aware of the importance of our children playing, but how much of this is essential for their development? What we can we do as parents to maximise our children’s educational development?

The array of techniques, classes and educational philosophies available can be overwhelming, together with the pressure that is put upon us, as parents to maximise the full potential of our children’s education, starting with the all important choice of early years education, with some classes starting as young toddlers.

Accelerated learning is a technique often used. This is perhaps not to be confused with ‘hot housing’, a term used for the intensive study of a particular subject, often an area that a child shows great aptitude for. This has a somewhat controversial reputation, with some experts believing that this approach can prove to be too intensive for the children involved and possibly detrimental for the children’s future learning and overall development.

The accelerated learning philosophy and approach is to learn through engaging a child physically, intellectually and creatively.

Whereas all educational philosophies and approaches recognise the importance for children to play, or ‘let off steam’, from the more conventional education system to those of elective education, accelerated learning believe it is an essential learning and developmental too. It is part of the philosophy that through observing children playing, it has been discovered that children process the lessons learnt, either from personal experience or from an educationally lead activity. It has also been recognised that without sufficient periods of uninterrupted play children are unable to process this information and therefore are not as receptive or willing to learn. The development of the child’s own imagination, has proven to be essential for educational development.

Self esteem, a positive learning experience, motivational teaching and the development of ‘emotional intelligence’ are the core basis for the success of accelerated learning. Rather than learn by rote, the educational approach is to encourage children to explore an idea or subject rather than be told that this is the right answer. Young children are receptive to new languages, new experiences and new ideas. With the use of mind mapping techniques, music and the development of the new ‘three R’s’, Resourcefulness, Resilience, Responsibility, accelerated learning encourages children and teaches children to not lose their naturally enquiring minds. The result of this has been that children learn faster, retain the information and actively view education and learning as a positive experience, rather than something to be endured.

As with every decision that we as parents make, there is always an element of worry and fear as to whether we have made the right choice for our child. The test of any school, or education system that our children are entered into is, are they happy? If you can answer yes, then you have made the right choice.