According to a 2013 piece by the Huffington Post, US literacy rates have stagnated in the last ten years. 14 percent of the adult population cannot read, and a further 21 percent of adults reads at or below a fifth-grade level. With such alarming statistics in place, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and fearful of your child receiving a substandard education. If you’re attempting to find the right school for your little one, here are four aspects that should factor heavily into your decision.
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Programs Offered
Every parent has different ideas about what specialties they would like their child to explore. For some parents, a focus on music is integral to early education. For others, mathematics and reading comprehension are top priorities. For still others, a well-rounded education that exposes children to equal aspects of arts and sciences is the goal. Look at how a school’s program is structured before making your decision.
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Student-to-Teacher Ratio
A teacher who is overwhelmed with too many children in a class is less effective and your child may also suffer from lack of one-on-one time. The National Institute for Early Education Research recommends a ratio of no larger than 1:12. Look for a school that offers a ratio at or below this level. For example, The International School of MN caps classes to 20 children with one teacher and a teacher’s aid, leaving their ratio at 1:10.
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Compatibility with Your Lifestyle
The best school in the area might not be the right fit if the family would struggle to pay the tuition. The same can hold true if the commute time is long. Ideally, the right school for your child would dovetail nicely with your family’s lifestyle. Consider this carefully before you make your selection, as changing schools can be an upheaval and a setback in your child’s education and socialization.
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Diversity
A child who is exposed to a variety of people will feel more at-ease with those who are different. Being exposed to diversity also gives your child the opportunity to learn about other cultures, opinions, experiences and points of view. If these factors are important to you, look for a school that embraces diversity and tolerance.
Choosing the right early education facility for your child can have life-long consequences. By keeping these points in mind during your considerations, you can make the best decision possible for your child and your family.
