Many people view education as taking the well trodden public school path or doing something different. The truth is that when you choose to send your child somewhere besides public school, the options and possibilities are never ending. While public school can so often be a one size fits all approach to education, many parents are able to pick and choose which type of private school will be the best fit for their child. Not every private education will be perfectly tailored for every child, but there can be several options in your area that will fit your child’s interests and natural mode for learning so your child will be able to thrive in their learning environment.

How to choose the right private school

Once you decide that a private education will be a good fit for your child, make a list of private schools offered in a reasonable distance from your home. Look at the major emphasis or learning methods that each school uses and think about how your child will do in each environment. If your only experience is what a public school classroom looks like, you may find it difficult to picture how different schools are conducted. For Montessori schools, the classes do not have a teacher standing from the front of a classroom, for instance. The students will be able to move freely around the room, deciding what new skill they want to tackle each day. The colorful, interactive classroom will teach your child independence, self-governing, and order as they are gently instructed by their teachers. If your child finds sitting in a chair difficult, a Montessori environment may be an excellent fit for your explorative child to move around while they learn.  

Observe the classroom

Actually stepping into a private school classroom and observing what takes place before enrolling your student in a program is an excellent way to make sure you are choosing a private education that is a good fit for your child. Ask plenty of questions about any concerns you have about your child fitting into the classroom and how the school's different systems work to keep you updated on the progress of your child.

Look for before and after care

Finding a school that not only fits your child but also you as well can be a big help. If you work outside the home, before and after care can really make a big difference in the amount of stress it takes to get your child to and from their school. Education should support your child’s natural love of learning in every way. You don’t want your child to associate stress with their education. Getting to school calmly because you have enough time to get to work will help your child enjoy going to school as well as loving every minute they are there.

Knowing that it is possible to find a private school that is the perfect fit for your child will give you the peace of mind that you have done everything possible to support your child in their education. For a Montessori program in Danville, Orinda, or Pleasant Hill, CA, check out the Fountainhead Montessori School for an amazing, hands-on education for your child. Give Fountainhead Montessori School a call today.