Choosing a Kindergarten
It is time of the year again for anxious parents to scout for suitable kindergarten for the little ones. There are many factors that determine the final choice. How do you know which kindergarten is the best for your child?
Points to be considered in choosing a suitable kindergarten:
Would you drive all the way to send your child to a renowned kindy or just send your child to a kindy around the corner?
Is transportation service available if you could not send and pick up child personally?
What is your preference on their learning programmes?
Letterland is a system for teaching children basic literacy: how to read, write and spell using a synthetic phonics approach. It is set in an imaginary Letterland, populated with pictogram-based characters. These characters are a fusion of letters and animated characters. It was originally developed by Lyn Wendon, and first published in 1985.
The Montessori method respects individual liberty of children to choose their own activities. This freedom allows children to follow their inner guidance for self-directed learning. With each freedom the child has to make a choice, there are also limits to that freedom based on the functionality of the environment. For example, a child may choose his own work, but only that is available at the time and on which he has had a lesson.
The FunGates System emphasizes on fun-filled learning, character building and creative development of a child, equipped with science and computer center with fun-to-learn teaching aids and exclusive FunGates apparatus.
FunGates uses open classroom concept for the students. This is to train them to focus on what they are learning without being disturbed by others as well as to help them handle multiple inputs.
Are you comfortable with the principal/teachers during the interview? One mother shared that she was put off by a principal who emphasizes merely on homework and examinations for a 4 years old.
Are the teachers certified in child education and how many years of experience do they have?
A survey among Pitter Patter Fan Club members revealed that the cost is between RM500 to RM1100 monthly for half day session and lunch excluding insurance, textbooks, uniforms, extracurricular activities
Does the kindy offer extra activities for those who opt to stay back? What are the activities in store for the children?
Do they accept children below 4 years old? Most of the kindergartens I spoke to only take in toilet-trained children and only two are willing to take untrained children.
Do you like the kindy facilities and environment? Is it well-maintained; is the equipment in good condition?
How is the pick up system like? Some kindergarten only recognized the pick up cards provided by the school and some need phone confirmation for emergencies. Do they have guard or strict security system?
Besides in-class lessons, are there any outdoor curricular or educational trips?
How large is the class size? How many teachers in a class? Typical ratio ranges from 8 to 15 children per teacher.
To help you decide, the best is to pay a visit to each kindergarten in your list, talk to the principal, check out the classroom, toilets, play area, selection of toys and books. Compare and decide one that you are most comfortable with
