Does Preschool Have your Head Spinning?

I've been toying with the idea of preschool for awhile now. My daughter is the extroverted product of two somewhat-introverts who could stay home for weeks on end as long as there's a steady supply of books and nachos. My two year old lovingly calls out to anyone under the age of 12 to “be her best friend..” and while we have our moments (and who doesn't?) she's generally a peach. So preschool seems like a good step, but it's one that's completely overwhelming to any parent. Gone are the days of sending in a check, awaiting your “welcome” packet, and hauling your kid off with a snack for a few hours of finger-painting and free play.

Now a preschool isn't a place to play, it's a learning experience. When you go to bed chanting “Montessori, Reggio Emilio and Waldorf” before settling in you know you've got it bad. And for each teaching method there's an alarming amount of books and information for any parent who's trying to figure out what's best for their kid. But finding the time to analyze each method isn't easy, so I've tried to narrow them down. Think you like the sound of one?

Montessori, where work is play! I don't know about you, but my kid considers the most mundane activities completely thrilling. Shining shoes? Scooping and transfer cups of rice? They all scream “FUN” to her, and for those who want to create DIY kids, Montessori may be the way to go. Maria Montessori is the leader of this educational movement, and her views go something like this: having an environment that's kid friendly: everything is kid-height to encourage independent play, and no one is forced to participate in an activity they aren't comfortable with. This tends to result in pretty self-sufficient little 3 and 4 year olds. When considering a Montessori school, do your research diligently however; any preschool could claim to follow the method to a tee, when this isn't the case.

Waldorf; nurture through nature. Ruldolph Steiner is the man behind Waldorf and when it comes to preschool he believes strongly in rhythm. Children are guided through the day with activities like story time, outside play [in any weather] and arts and crafts. Many of the elements of a Waldorf preschool are natural: you won't find any flashy Fisher Price toys here, but instead baskets of rocks and pinecones, wooden trucks and dollhouses, and plenty of scarves for pretend play. Waldorf education also stresses seasonal festivals, songs, handiwork, story telling, and games.

Reggio Emilia; playful learning. Reggio Emilia is a fantastic method for parents who want to be involved in their childrens education. Another Italian import, this method focuses on letting children hold the reigns for their education. A lot of emphasis is put on “creative projects,” and creating a lovely, joyful space for kids to learn in using all their five senses.

Preschool coop: If parents simply can't find the perfect preschool, the option to start your own is available. Many folks are coming together to create “preschool coops” which are run by parents whose children attend. Cooperatives can also be run by a professional ___ [think ex art teacher] who have branched off to start their own non-profit schools. If you want to play the role of “teacher” to your child and his peers, then this is perfect. You control curriculum and what goes on, and many times cooperatives can take place in a space that's rented, or at someone's home.

When considering a school, consider your families needs:
-Would your child thrive in a full or part time program?
-What are the financial constraints?
-Is the application process a killer?

Some preschools require two, and three interviews. Remember that your child is probably two or three and this may be overdoing it. You aren't applying for college, just trying to find an awesome place for your kids to thrive!

About the Author Managing Partner and Editor-in-Chief at one of the best social networking and lifestyle sites for moms, EverythingMom.com. Trying to balance life at home with my 3 kids (all under 8), while building my business, working at EverythingMom.com and developing my writing. Oh and throw a load of laundry in and a dinner that isn't burnt. Wasn't working from home suppose to be easier? Posted by Carrie Anne in education on March 22, 2010 More from this author  |  Author Website Follow Carrie Anne on:  |  |  |