Choosing Schools for Children

A private school courtyard in Brazil (Wikipedia)

by Wendy W James

Choosing the best school for your child is not only a personal but time consuming decision.

Some parents are content with a public school and others would rather have their children in a private school.

However, it is important to exhaust all possible options before arriving at a decision.

When choosing schools, it is essential to focus on your child's characteristics.

If you keep their personality, strengths, weaknesses, capabilities, and interests in mind you will be able to find the best possible school to fit their disposition.

There are private schools that are geared towards children with special needs with typically developing peers in class. There are schools that guide parents on good home school routines for their children.

There are also schools that follow unique teaching philosophies, for instance, there are schools that follow a Waldorf curriculum.

This kind of curriculum focuses on the social development of students where creative expression and imagination are at the heart of learning. Students are not evaluated against a numerical grading system, but rather through qualitative assessment methods.

Aside from considering your child's disposition, it is important to factor in the facilities of each school to ensure that it supports your child's learning experience. Visit the school and check whether the school has a library, playgrounds, spacious classrooms and communal areas.

A school that strives for a strong teacher, parent bond can make a huge difference in your child's education. This is because you are much more likely to hear feedback on how your child is doing in a particular area, especially if your child is struggling.

Further, considering the teacher-student ratio of the school is crucial. Every child learns at different rates and with different techniques. Some children learn fast, while others need further guidance from their teachers in order for them to understand.

When teacher-student ratios are small, your child is much less likely to be left behind and they will likely get the extra attention they need to succeed.

When teachers handle a manageable number of students all at the same time, all of her students will remain on the same page whatever the current class discussion is.

When touring schools for your child it is wise to ask about the extracurricular activities available for students.

Schools that offer after-school activities such as dance, music, sports, culinary, and photography clubs can enhance your child's creativity. After school activities not only help your child find passion in particular subjects but it also helps with socializing.

If you are the kind of parent who wants to be involved with their child's school activities, you can also ask the schools administrators about parent and family involvements that the school has.

Schools that have a lot of opportunities for parental involvement such as parent teacher conferences and family days can make you appreciate the school even more.

Educating you child today is essential to their future; therefore it is best to look into every option for your child's education.

Bright Water School is one of the best Seattle Washington schools that offers parent and child classes. Parents can meet other parents of young children, learn about early childhood development and engage the Waldorf approach.

Come visit their campus and meet their staff to discover what Bright Water School is all about.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wendy_W_James
http://EzineArticles.com/?Choosing-Schools-for-Children&id=7949970