It’s nice to have choices in life. Will I eat out, or stay at home and save some money? Will I go to Florida this year for spring break, or make a trip to visit family? Will I accept the invitation to the party, or stay home and have a night in my pajamas?
Some choices are easy and without much consequence, and others feel a bit more heavy. One of those choices that may feel like it carries more weight, and quite possibly keep you up at night, is the question of what school is best for your child. With so many options and so many opinions, how do you sort through the noise and finally make up your mind? If this is a question that has kept you from some much needed shut-eye, we are here to help.
How to Make a Decision Without the Stress
While eliminating all the stress may be close to impossible, here are some things that will hopefully help to alleviate the mental load a bit.
The Choice Doesn’t Have to Be Permanent
One of the reasons parents feel so much stress and pressure when making decisions for our children is that we forget that we can always course correct if necessary. There are few choices we will make that are set in stone, and this includes our child’s education.
In an ideal world, they would be in the perfect school that is fulfilling their needs — a school where they are thriving and being challenged and also loved and supported in every sense. This is what we want, but remember: If you choose a school and it ends up not being the right fit, you can begin the process of transferring. When we make choices through this lens, it can help us to take a deep breath and move forward without as much pressure as we may have felt before.
Know That there Are Great Options Out There
When choosing a school, go with what is most important for your family and your child. Public, private, charter, Montessori … the list goes on. The good news is that these different schools all have wonderful things to offer your child.
Lean into your village.
We have a wonderful resource in our neighbors, family, friends and community. As you are exploring options, reach out to local Facebook groups, talk to other families who are a bit ahead of you in years and experience with the school systems and begin learning about the schools from the people with personal experience. You aren’t alone and many parents have walked the road you find yourself on today. Don’t be afraid to voice your concerns and desires for your child’s education and listen with an open mind to what those who have gone before you have to say.
Decide What is Important for Your Child and Family
Every family is different and every child is different. You may even find that a school that works for one of your children, may not be ideal for another. As you are looking into schools, think about your child’s unique personality and learning style, and ask yourself these questions:
- Do they enjoy learning in big groups?
- Do they need more one-on-one attention?
- Would they thrive in a smaller classroom?
- Do you want them to learn at their own pace or with the class as a whole?
- Is there an area of focus that is important to you and your family, such as religion, the arts, languages, STEM, service or something else?
- Do you need before or aftercare offered?
- How far away is the school?
- Is public transportation provided?
- Is there a cost and does this fit into your family’s budget?
If your child is old enough, ask them what sounds best to them. Talk with them about the options and see if there is something that makes their eyes light up. You also may want to take them to a couple of the schools to see what they think about the options you have chosen for them.
As much as it feels right for your child and your family, you can include them in their education choices. Ask them what their ideal classroom looks like and the ways they like to learn and see where this leads. Their answers to these questions may be the last piece of the puzzle that fits for you to make a decision.
Choosing a school for your child can feel like a lot. Remember, you know your child better than anyone. You’ve got this! You are doing amazing, and your child is going to do amazing, too.
