10 Tips for
Rachel Szalay
Selecting a Kindergarten Program
Choosing a kindergarten for your child can be a daunting task. In an effort to place your child in the “right” school, there are many things to consider. Navigating the world of kindergarten nights and open houses may sound like a pressure cooker for parents. However this can be an exciting time and one filled with excellent surprises.
1
Think about your own philosophy of education. What are some of the things you want for your child? Do you want her to get her hands dirty and experience things close up? Would you like a streamlined, rigorous approach to learning or one that is more flexible and grows with students as they learn? Do you believe in collaboration and group work or does your child work better alone? Learn the philosophy of the school and use it to guide the vision of your child as a student there.
2
Consider the whole school community. When looking for a kindergarten program, it’s tempting to be laserfocused on the teacher but it’s vital to look at the whole school and consider if it feels like “home.” You’re choosing a school, not just a teacher. It’s wonderful
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to love your child’s kindergarten teacher — and it’s great to be excited about what comes next.
3
Seek enthusiastic, inspired teachers. The biggest influences on your child (aside from yours) will be the teachers they interact with, so observe them in action. If you want a setting where students are encouraged to think creatively, look for teachers who think creatively. Ask about professional development for teachers. If a school is committed to furthering education for their teachers, you can be sure those teachers are giving students their best.
4
Remember: Learning should be fun! School is awesome. Learning is awesome. Being with friends and teachers who care for you is awesome.
When you tour a class, take note — Are the kids happy and involved? When children feel the joy of learning, everything else comes naturally.
5
Search for a balanced curriculum. A great program has breadth and time for exploration. Look for a school with a strong social/emotional program and teachers who take the time to help children communicate, solve problems, and provide time for academic learning and working together as a classroom community. As a child prepares to be an active participant in the world, the importance of a well-rounded education that focuses on the whole child is essential.
6
Be attentive to class size. A small class size can mean the difference between a good school