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GROWN UPS
Selecting the Right Pre-School
This time of year, newspapers
and magazines are full of advertisements for preschools. In my opinion, you
will never make a decision as important as the preschool decision for your
child. The first years of educational experiences can literally "make or
break" a child’s feelings about the learning process and how that child
feels about himself as a learner.
I often say in this column that
parents know their child better than anyone else, and in this particular
instance, those words could not be more true. You know, for example, how long
your child can sit and pay attention in a learning situation. You know whether
your child responds to a structured setting or to a more open environment. You
should also be able to get the feel of a school and how your child would fit
in that school by following certain recommended procedures.
Sharon Haag, Director of the
highly respected May River Montessori School suggests that parents should tour
all schools they are interested in and formulate their own conclusions based
on knowing the needs of their particular child. She states, "Look for a
safe, clean environment where the children look happy and engaged. Look for
well equipped rooms and ask questions about the school’s philosophy,
programs and extra services."
Lauren Marlis of Hilton Head
Preparatory counsels: "Ideally, you should begin to look a full year in
advance. Talk with others, but keep in mind that you know your child and your
family best and what will fit one family may not be right for yours."
As you look at preschools, also
keep in mind that preschool in and of itself, is a foundation. Dr. Susan
Groesbeck states that: "The transition from preschool to kindergarten is
subtle. Classroom settings have many different activities and some emphasize
individual work while others put attention of group interaction. The important
thing is that students are busy with a variety of subjects and move about
throughout their day."
Finally, and unfortunately, one
must also look at costs. When you examine preschools, you must also look to
the future. Many schools today offer an educational pattern that goes from
preschool to grade twelve. If you select a public school, this is not a
problem. If you opt for private education you must look not only at tuition,
but also at "expectations." Many private schools expect parents to
contribute to costs in ways varying from direct donations to perhaps attending
a Gala and making a purchase or a donation at that fundraising event. Lauren
Marlis from Hilton head Prep also says: "Do not forget the cost of
uniforms, books, activities, and perhaps more if you opt for private
education."
This decision is of utmost
importance. Do not make it lightly. Think about the foundation of a house as
the support of the entire structure. For more information, please go to www.readroom.com
and click on the Hilton Head Island section. Input from local educators
will be available there.
Judith Lawrenson. MA, Ed.
Comments to Judith at JLResource@AOL.com,
or Post on our Bulletin Board
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