Apart from the cost, because of course private preschools are more expensive, what other factors do you need to consider in order to help make your decision between a public or a private preschool easier?
Nationally Accredited Program
Not all preschool programs are created equal. One benchmark to go by when deciding upon a preschool for your child is to see if it is NAEYC accredited. This means that the program conforms to standards set by the National Association of Education for Young Children and has a preschool curriculum should include which ensures qualified teachers, arts programs and other such criteria. So, even if the private preschool you are contemplating about sounds really great and your friends’ kids go there, ask about their national accreditation to make your decision smoother.
Ethnically Diverse
This may be an issue for some parents and not for others. Regardless of where you stand as to whether you want an ethically diverse classroom for your child or not, this is something you may want to check out at the private preschool you are considering. It may be that because it is expensive or located in an upscale neighborhood, only children from a certain background attend. This may be something you do or do not want and can decide accordingly.
Transportation
Some public preschool programs that fall under the school district or those kids that attend a special development class get free transportation to and from school. This may not be provided by a private preschool and may be something that you will need to factor in.
Hours and Location
How far is the private preschool from your home and is it worth the long commute for your three year old? Is it worth for you to drive all that way and have to be back in two hours to get him? Is parking easily available or do you need to drive in circles looking for a spot? Do teachers come out and get kids so you do not need to get off with your infant in the snow or do you have to personally sign in and sign out your child. Does the private preschool allow car pooling?
Uniform
Again, some parents like uniforms so that they don’t have to argue with their preschooler that they can not wear the shabby Spiderman shirt to school – for the third time this week. Others feel it limits a child’s personality and identity to be wearing the same clothes. Some private schools do have a uniform, whereas others are more flexible with the preschool classes.
Long Term
Do you plan on sending your child to a private school in the long run too? If so, does this private preschool have higher classes at the same premises? Is that something that is convenient for you if you have more than one child?
After answering these questions and evaluating your child’s personality, do take a tour of the private preschool you are considering sending your child to. Even if you’ve heard ‘good things’ about the school and your friends are happy with it, what may work for one family may not work for the other. Make sure the preschool you choose is a good fit for you and your child. Good luck!
