Whether your child is making the shift into lower, middle or high school, all parents know that this is a major decision that is going to have a huge impact on your child’s life (and your own!).
Doing the research and getting your plan together as early as possible is the best decision you can make for your kid. But how do you know which school is right for them? You might be completely happy with a government school, or if you’re financially able, you might want to enrol them in a private school In Springfield, MO, if you’re in the area. Whichever way you choose, having open communication with them about their needs and wants is crucial. Here are a few tips for choosing a good school.
Use the Internet
Take some time early on to do some online research about the schools that are available to you in your area. If you’re considering sending your child to a boarding school, then geographical location won’t be as much of a factor and you’ll have a lot more choices at your fingertips. This might make it harder to choose, but this might introduce the option of better schools!
Get your child involved and let them take a look at the schools' websites too and get their opinion on what grabs their interest. Making them a part of the journey will help them to feel satisfied and comfortable with whatever decision you make in the end.
Visit the Schools
Once you and your child have narrowed down your options through your online research, make some appointments to take a look at the schools in person. Giving your child the opportunity to walk through the buildings where they might spend the next few years of their lives is important since they can get a feel for the environment. This will also give you the opportunity to meet some of the teachers and assess whether the school’s values and learning system will be right for you and your kid.
Check Out Your Budget
You might want to send your child to only the very best schools in the country, but you’ll need to be realistic about what you as a family can afford. If you have started your planning early, you might be able to start a savings fund if the fees seem like they might be difficult to manage.
Keep in mind any additional costs that aren’t included in the fees – school uniforms, books and textbooks, extracurricular activities, sports and gym wear, school trips and camps. These items can really send a budget plan out the window if they aren’t accounted for.
Listen to Your Child
At the end of the day, you are the parent and it’s in your hands to make the final decision. However, keep in mind that your kid knows themselves and their needs, and their opinion in this decision is just as important (if not more important) than your own. Your child’s happiness and success is your greatest concern, so hear them out when you’re making big decisions.
