A transition can be difficult at any age. The difficultly related to making big transitions can give some parents pause when they consider moving their child into a new school. If you want to move your child from a public school to a Montessori program, there will be some changes for your child. Montessori education is unique and will not look like the public program your child is accustomed to. The good news is that the changes your child will see in the classroom are all positive. Students typically adjust quickly to the environment and design of the Montessori classroom. You can get your student started on making a smooth transition before classes start by setting clear expectations, going over the positive differences in the new program, and visiting the campus. The small steps can make a big difference when it comes to easing your child’s transition into Montessori school.

Set clear expectations

One of the most difficult elements of change is dealing with the unknowns. Helping your child understand what to expect in Montessori school can help ease the transition. Talk about the design of the classroom, schedule, and curriculum. Go over a typical day in Montessori school. Look at the descriptions of the different subjects that are offered in the program. These actions will help your child imagine what it will be like in the new program. This process will also allow your child to ask questions and share concerns. You can find most of the information you need for this process on the school website.

Go over the positive differences your child will experience

You are switching your child from public education to Montessori education for a reason – or number of reasons. Talk about those with your child. Point out the positive differences your child will experience in Montessori school. For example, your student will get an individualized learning plan. This means that the teacher will create a learning plan that includes topics of interest for your child. Talk to your student about the fact that he or she will get to spend more time learning about topics of interest. Other positive differences to point out include the design of the classroom – students get to move around instead of staying in a desk – and the variety of hands-on learning activities. Add other positive differences to the list as you talk about this transition with your child.

Visit the campus before the program begins

As a parent, you can schedule a time to observe a class at the Montessori school you are considering for your child. This is an important step for you to take because it will provide you with a clear picture of the structure and environment at the school. Once you decide on a program, it will be helpful for your child to visit the campus as well. Talk to the program you have chosen about options for a campus tour or open house. Allowing your child to see the school can do a lot to ease the transition.

The benefits of switching from public school to a Montessori education far outweigh the temporary discomfort of change. You can take a few simple steps to ease the transition for your student and shorten the time it takes for him or her to adjust to the change. If you have specific questions about the program at Fountainhead Montessori School – or want more resources to provide to your child – visit the website or reach out to a member of the staff.