choosing a kindergarten or prep

There are many alternatives when choosing a Kindergarten or Prep for your child. Some of these include:

• Kindergartens that are offered as an extension of the child care centre's services
• Stand alone Kindergartens
• Government schools
• Independent schools based on particular educational theories or religious beliefs
• Specialist schools or classes within a supported educational system
• Distance education
  
  

 Every school is different. So the best way to choose the right school for your child is to shop around. Have a look at what each school has to offer – before/after school care, sporting facilities, extra-curricular activities and educational facilities. Find out what their underlying philosophies are – do these line up with values you are trying to promote in your child’s life? What are the school fees? Are there requirements as well – parent help, uniforms, pre-enrolment interviews? By finding out all you can about the school, you can make a more informed decision that you are confident about.

There are a couple of points that every parent/caregiver needs to remember:

• Your particular school experience does not dictate your child’s experience
• The decision you make as to the school you choose for your child should be about them – not about you
  
• The school you choose will impact your child during their schooling years and beyond, so choose carefully.