How To Choose The Best School For Your Child

Each school is a different world and you have to choose which world you want your child to grow into. Therefore, there are several factors that you need to take into account that need to be analyzed conscientiously and with dedication.

Our little babies are growing and this involves important decisions, such as the choice of school.  This is where they will spend most of their time. Where their teachers will shape their education. And there that their classmates will foment their social environment.

This decision is not to be taken lightly. In the long run, what happens during your children’s schooling will determine their future. The list of options is extensive and there are many factors to consider, such as financial situation, family values, and what to expect from your child.

Here we give you some recommendations on things to keep in mind.

Public or private education?

This choice is very important and is not limited to the financial situation. While it’s important to calculate whether you can afford the cost of a private school or if your means limit you to a public school, other factors should influence your decision.

Admission possibilities

Many private schools have a limited number of places, so registration can be more difficult. If you have already planned for your child to attend a private school, it is best to start preparing the materials well in advance.

Public schools are required to admit all children, although  in some countries and cities zoning restrictions apply and only admit children living in the surrounding area.

If so,  you should find out if the schools in your area meet your expectations. Otherwise, you will have to consider a move, with all that that implies, or a request for a waiver.

Course of Study

The subjects studied,  the books used and the teaching conditions are generally uniform in the public schools, since they are regulated according to the educational bodies of the State. However, each private school is organized as it sees fit. Although there are some general guidelines that she still has to follow, she is more free to change the program.

So find out about the school’s educational offer  before making your decision!

Teacher certification

As a rule, teachers in public schools attend teacher  training studies and have to pass selection exams.

Some private schools use the same type of filter to hire their teachers, but  others look for professionals or subject matter experts,  which doesn’t mean they’re better or worse. In any case, it is better to ask and, if possible, to meet the teachers.

Social environment

Public schools are generally more diverse, as they admit students without so many filters. Private schools can be more selective and less inclusive because, aside from the financial filter, some have restrictions on gender or religion.

Consider that from now on,  your child will spend more time with his classmates than with you  and that they will influence his life.

Religious or secular education

If you have decided to enroll your child in a private school, you should also  choose the best school based on the  values you want them to receive  and the type of activities they will have available to them.

If religion is important to you, religious schools teach the sacred books, rites, and other values ​​specific to your belief.

Secular schools, public and private,  rely exclusively on strictly academic institutions, although they can also offer a varied offer of extracurricular activities, which sometimes also include religion.

Specialized schools

In some cases, the school’s pedagogy offers specializations. This does not necessarily mean that there is only one goal, but a greater emphasis on a certain area.

Some schools offer courses in another language, such as English, Spanish or German, schools specializing in art and science, others with advanced sports programs and many other forms teaching.

If you consider that your child has potential in any of these specializations,  you may want to consider choosing the best school that will orient their skills earlier.

What to do before choosing the best school?

Considering the above factors, it is always advisable to investigate at best. Find out below some of the things you can do to gain the knowledge you need to make the best decision:

• Check the ranking  of schools  : All countries maintain a  ranking of schools, maintained by public bodies such as the Ministry of Education. Search the Internet for the ranking of schools that interest you to find out how they rank.
• Find out through Internet forums and blogs: comments from other parents who already have children in the schools you are interested in can give you a guide. Even better if you know them personally. Ask them questions, but don’t take their opinions as the truth, because every personal experience is different.
• Visit the schools: ask for an appointment with the principal and the pedagogical advisers. Then ask them any questions that might answer your concerns. You can also request a guided tour. Some schools even allow parents to attend a class.
• Participate in open houses: most schools organize events to explain their operation, characteristics and conditions to potential new students. Attend, take notes and ask questions.
• Visit the school with your child  : their opinion counts too. Visit the school with him and ask him what he thinks about it. It will probably intimidate him, as it is a new experience, but his impressions and reactions can help you stop your choice.

The most important thing is to  start the selection process several months before the start of the registration period. Choosing the best school is a task that takes time and analysis. If you deal with it at the last minute, the options will be reduced. And you may have to settle for what’s available.