In recent years, early childhood education in Vietnam has undergone significant changes, shifting toward a child-centered approach rather than rigid, one-size-fits-all methods. One prominent methodology adopted by many preschools and educational centers is the P-E-G model in early childhood education. This model combines three elements: Project-based learning, Experiential learning, and Game-based learning, helping children develop holistically in cognition, skills, and emotional intelligence.

Amid increasing parental concern for quality early education, this model not only provides new directions for children before entering primary school but also serves as a critical foundation for fostering proactive and creative learning habits. This article analyzes the concept, benefits, application, and future prospects of P-E-G, offering parents and educators a comprehensive understanding.

What is P-E-G?

P-E-G stands for Project, Experience, and Game. In early childhood education, the model emphasizes that children should not passively receive knowledge; instead, they engage in diverse activities to explore the world around them.

• Project-based learning: Children participate in small, age-appropriate projects, such as building a model house, tending a garden corner, or creating a family photo book. Through this process, children learn planning, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Experiential learning: Children learn by “doing,” such as mixing dough, observing nature outdoors, or participating in field trips. Hands-on experiences help children understand knowledge more deeply than just listening to explanations.
• Game-based learning: A familiar “learn through play” approach. Children engage in rule-based games, developing thinking skills, agility, and teamwork.

When these three methods are combined, they create a dynamic learning environment that encourages creativity while cultivating essential skills for primary school readiness.

Why P-E-G is Suitable for Early Childhood Education

The early childhood stage (ages 4–6) is a period of rapid brain development, high curiosity, and strong imitation ability. Traditional methods (listen–copy–repeat) may cause boredom and lack of motivation.

P-E-G is considered suitable because it:

• Matches developmental characteristics: Children learn best through play and hands-on activities.
• Encourages autonomy: Children actively ask questions and find solutions.
• Develops holistic skills: Beyond knowledge, P-E-G fosters communication, collaboration, creativity, and emotional management.
• Connects family and school: Many projects relate to real life, encouraging parental involvement.

Detailed Analysis of P-E-G’s Three Pillars

1. Project-based Learning

Projects are central to P-E-G. For young children, projects are simple and relatable. For instance, a “planting project” over two weeks allows children to learn sowing, watering, and observing plant growth. This nurtures observation skills, logical thinking, and patience while showing that learning extends beyond the classroom.

2. Experiential Learning

Children retain knowledge best when experiencing it firsthand. For example, when learning about professions, children might visit a bakery to observe bakers at work. When learning about animals, they might visit a farm to touch goats and chickens. Experiential learning creates emotional imprints, improving memory retention and connecting knowledge to real life while fostering confidence, communication, and problem-solving skills.

3. Game-based Learning

Play is a child’s natural language. Through structured games, children learn turn-taking, rule-following, teamwork, and strategic thinking. For example, a “fast puzzle” game enhances observation skills and patience. Game-based learning also develops motor skills, reflexes, and creativity, making learning enjoyable and natural.

Benefits of the P-E-G Model

• Holistic development: Children acquire not only basic knowledge (letters, numbers) but also critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.
• Long-term learning motivation: Engaging learning experiences foster sustained curiosity beyond primary school.
• Positive character building: Children learn respect, sharing, and confidence.
• Parental support: Many activities can be adapted at home, enabling parents to actively participate.

Practical Application in Vietnam

Many preschools and educational centers in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang have integrated P-E-G into early childhood programs. Reports indicate that children in P-E-G programs exhibit greater confidence, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities compared to traditional methods.

For example, during a “classroom environmental protection project,” children learn to sort waste, decorate trash bins, and remind peers to maintain cleanliness. This demonstrates how knowledge is paired with action.

Challenges and Solutions

Despite its advantages, implementing P-E-G faces challenges:

• Lack of trained teachers: Not all teachers are familiar with designing educational projects or games.
• Limited facilities: Some schools lack outdoor spaces or dedicated play areas.
• Uneven parental awareness: Some parents still prioritize rote learning over soft skills development.

Solutions include training teachers, investing in facilities, and educating parents on the long-term benefits of this approach.

Future Prospects

With Vietnam’s emphasis on educational innovation, P-E-G has strong potential for expansion. The model aligns with international trends and meets parental demand for children who are both knowledgeable and creative.

If implemented systematically across preschools and skill centers, P-E-G can enhance the quality of early education in Vietnam, laying a solid foundation for the next generation of globally competent citizens.

Conclusion

The P-E-G model in early childhood education represents a significant advancement in teaching children aged 4–6. By combining Project-based learning, Experiential learning, and Game-based learning, P-E-G enables natural knowledge acquisition while cultivating essential life skills.

With proper investment and wide adoption, P-E-G could become a standard in early childhood education in Vietnam, fostering a generation of proactive, creative learners ready to adapt to the modern world