Different Types Of Preschool Programs

Sending your child to preschool is one of the first times you will drop your child off into the world on their own. It's the first in many steps toward independence you will experience together throughout your relationship. While it's extremely difficult for the parents, it can also be difficult for the child. Picking the right preschool center can enhance the experience and encourage healthy independence. Learn about the different types of preschool programs available. 

Montessori and Waldorf Schools

Montessori and Waldorf preschool programs encourage exploration. They encourage the child to pursue their natural curiosity to learn what interests them the most. The principle behind the program is that children learn the best when they guide their curriculum. The school will let the child choose among a wide variety of activities, including art, music, reading, legos, technology, and physical recreation. This is a great option for naturally curious and creative children. 

While Montessori schools encourage student-driven learning, they emphasize core lessons slightly more than Waldorf schools. Waldorf schools usually don't include a core curriculum, such as language arts and math, until grade school. Preschoolers in Montessori programs will have some core lessons throughout the day combined with independent play/study.

Parent Co-Op Schools

Some parents want to have a lot of control over the school's itinerary and policies, especially when teaching preschoolers. A parent co-op preschool has a unique power structure that places the parents at the top. Parents get the opportunity to have a say in policies and hiring decisions. Likeminded parents can also come together to create a program that suits their unique needs not offered by most of the other schools.

Religious Schools 

No matter how you run your household, your child will encounter the secular world as they get older. Many parents who prioritize faith fear that a traditional school setting may not teach the religious beliefs they want their children to take into the world with them. Religious preschools will help instill faith into everyday activities outside of the house. It's a great way to transition children from the household to the outside world and still show them how to incorporate religion and develop a religious support circle.

There is nothing wrong with traditional preschool programs. The teachers are usually generous, loving educators with the best interest of the child at heart. However, it's good to know your options. This will be the first time you send your child into the world, and you want them to have the right experience.

Contact a preschool teacher to learn more about preschool programs. 

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