Preschool gives children a solid academic foundation that prepares them for kindergarten. Preschool teacher Deanna Raynor says: “In order for the children to really do well in school, in society, at home as a whole,… [they] need to be rooted and grounded socially and emotionally.” In preschool, children learn important social and emotional skills, such as:Getting along with others and resolving conflictsListening and following instructionsEffectively communicating thoughtsMaking appropriate decisionsBuilding self-esteemAs well as motor skills, math, science, and language skillsThe most important brain development occurs before the age of five. Children’s experiences during this time and the quality of their education will shape how they perform in school in the future.