As caregivers, we always want the best for our child and selecting a kindergarten program is no exception. Enrolling your child in a kindergarten program that is right for your child is important to create an enjoyable school experience for your child, and also to build a foundation for long-term development.
With so many options to choose from, researching and ultimately enrolling your child in the right kindergarten program can quickly become overwhelming and challenging. To help you narrow your focus and ensure you considering all factors, we have gathered up 10 tips to help you select the ideal kindergarten program for your unique child.
Early Development Is Critical For Long Term Success
So, why is this decision so important? Isn’t kindergarten just a small step up from preschool? Developmentally, the preschool years are a time of fast paced growth and change. Early educational experiences play an important role in building the foundation for your child’s future development.
A study by Harvard cited both medium and long term educational outcomes for children who experienced quality early childhood education programs.
When evaluating kindergarten programs for your child, consider whether the program not only provides fun, and social activities but also stimulates your child’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development. The best kindergarten programs are ones that focus on promoting healthy development through play, exploration, and discovery.
10 Important Factors to Consider to Select a Kindergarten Program
Now that you have a strong understanding about how important this decision really is and the potential long-term impact, let’s dive into some important things to think about when researching a kindergarten program for your child.
Accreditation
When evaluating kindergarten programs for your child, be sure to look for relevant accreditations such as NAEYC. There are several types of accreditation and it is important to understand which one(s) your kindergarten has so that you can ensure the education meets your standards. Here is a list of the most popular and well-respected accreditations in the United States.
Accreditation ensures that the school is meeting the highest standards of quality, safety, and educational excellence. Accreditation not only assures you that the kindergarten is commited to a set of standards, but it also provides accountability. A school’s website should have the accreditation logos displayed in the footer of their website, but if they don’t, be sure to ask.
Class Size
Research shows that smaller class sizes are always better when it comes to learning. Smaller classes provide kids with more individual attention and focus, which is especially important during the early years. Search for programs that offer low student-to-teacher ratios so that your child gets the best possible learning experience from their kindergarten program.
Teacher Experience and Education
North America is experiencing ongoing teacher shortages, which results in many programs employing teachers that haven’t been through rigorous education or training when it comes to early childhood education. Qualified, experienced teachers are essential to ensure your child is getting the most out of their instruction. When you visit a program, ask about the teacher’s experience, education level, and any certifications they have.
Developmental Appropriateness
When you are evaluating kindergarten programs, make sure that you schedule a physical tour where you can spend some time observing classroom time. Consider whether the school culture and kindergarten teachers are instructing according to developmental appropriate milestones. Do children appear to be frustrated or distracted? Or are they engaged and joyful?
Curriculum
Consider whether the school’s curriculum is right for your child. Programs should be designed to meet the needs of children at their particular stages of development and readiness. If you feel that your child is eager for more rigorous academics, Steiner/Waldorf, Language Immersion, Core Knowledge, or Academy schools may work best for your family. If your child prefers hands-on, experiential learning, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Forest School, or Froebel may be a better choice.
Time for Play
Regardless of the educational model, all kindergarten programs should offer extensive periods of time for children to play. Research shows that when children are joyful, actively engaged, and permitted to play, they learn better. Information is retained better and more fully understood. When evaluating kindergarten programs, ask about their play-based learning opportunities and developmentally appropriate playtime. This type of learning through play is essential for development and can give your child a chance to explore and learn in their own way. Even academically robust programs should have scheduled play at least once per day.
Speech and Occupational Therapy Options
You may never need to enroll your child in special services, but if the need arises, it is important to know that your child’s kindergarten has them available. If your child already has a special need or develops one in the future, understanding what accommodations are offered will be essential.
Financial Assistance and Flexibility
If you are leaning more towards private school kindergarten programs, consider the cost of tuition. If you can’t afford the school but feel that it is a perfect fit for your child, ask about financial assistance or scholarships. Also ask about payment terms and flexibility if your family should fall on hard times. Many private schools offer sibling discounts, payment plans, financial assistance, and scholarships to ensure that they are inclusive.
Schedule an In-Person Tour
You will learn so much about a school when you tour it in person. A school’s advertising shows all the shiny parts of the school, but when you are physically there, you may see and hear things that better inform your decision. Try to get a feel for the culture of the school. Observe classrooms, and ask questions. Talk to other parents, if possible. After your visit, trust your gut.
Family Involvement
If you are a family that wants to be involved with their child’s education, make sure that you are comfortable that the program you choose has options that engage families and has a strong school community. Being involved with your child’s school allows you to ensure that your child’s experience is what was promised.
Ask about parent-teacher conferences, volunteering opportunities, family events, and other ways to stay involved with your child’s learning to ensure they receive a balanced curriculum and remain academically engaged. Families that are involved with their child’s learning have an active hand in improving their educational experience.
Every kindergarten program is different, and deciding which one is right for your family can be a long process. Hopefully these tips provide some direction to get your started.
If you take an active role in screening each kindergarten program option available to you, you are more likely to make a great match that will benefit your child for years to come.