Every parent wants the best possible education for their child and I often get asked for my opinion where they should send their kids to primary. If I am allowed to be biased I would immediately recommend schools that use the IB program, Waldorf education system or any school that incorporates arts and experiential learning in their curriculum. Because those kinds of programs target holistic development (in my opinion) and build the child’s character better. Sometimes, I have some friends messaging me asking for some tips about choosing what kind of preschool I can recommend. But of course, I stick to objective suggestions whenever I am being asked by parents.
So as a parent, how can you effectively choose a school for your child?
First, know your child. I often ask parents “What does your child like to do? Are they interested in crafts, experiments, music, or just in a quiet environment?” Your child’s interests matter a whole lot when you are choosing a school. Knowing your child’s interests can help you get an idea on what kind of environment they would fit in. Keep in mind that the kind of practices your child has, the way they behave, the way they talk and their interests come from the environment they are in, it is the result of your choices for them.
Second, early years are NOT the time where you focus on academics. Play is the best way for them to learn (and yes this is backed up by Science and research). Play is essential for your child’s full development – it encompasses social skills (SUPER IMPORTANT), problem solving skills, speech, fine and gross motor development, emotional development, and many more. A lot of you might think that there is nothing to learn when they are just playing, but that’s the complete opposite. Would you learn how to knead a bread if you’re just watching how it’s done? Would you be able to learn how to dance if you’re just sitting there and watching your instructor? You need to actually do it to learn proper execution, right? That is play for children. Because they experience things first hand, they get to learn and discover better.
Third, recommendations are good but not necessary to follow. Some of the common reasons I hear from parents as to why they chose a certain school is because it was recommended by a family member or that everyone in the family went there. Know your child, and follow that.
Fourth and last one, this might not be what you want to hear but listen to this: outside of the budget, you should put your child’s interest first. It’s their experience not yours. I understand that part of your worry is that “what if they can’t catch up when they move to grade 1?” That is valid and totally understandable. BUT they can catch up if they are supported. Them going to school is not you going to school. If they are not comfortable, there’s a big chance they won’t be able to express their best self and they will not like the idea of going to school. Take their interest into big consideration.
As much as we want the “best” kind of education, remember that their experience at home is also essential. Home is where they learn morals, values and practices, school is the place where they are given the opportunity to practice those values by being in social situations.
