Thinking about early education options? Then preschool is the logical first step. But nowadays, it’s not necessarily the step everyone is taking.
The question is, is it right for you to send your child to preschool? And if you think it is or isn’t, why?
There are plenty of preschool pros and cons that come from sending your young child to school early, and many different types of preschool programs to choose from. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons behind why you should (or might reconsider) sending your child to preschool.
Pro: Create A Learning Environment Away From Home
The earlier kids start to integrate and learn from other kids and adults, the better. Though home learning is also crucial, a new environment forces your child to learn about social interactions and how to play with kids their age.
In terms of the universal preschool debate, you can assume that getting your child surrounded by others at an earlier age in a preschool or early learning centre is something that will benefit them in the long run.
Con: The Price
Children attend preschool (41-54%, depending on their parent’s level of education). The number of kids attending has climbed since 2005, opening the door for higher prices of attendance, too.
The average cost of attending preschool depends on where you live, but the average is between $372-1,100 per month.
For some parents, it would be cheaper to send their child to a full-time daycare. This might make preschool less desirable depending on where you live.
Pro: It Might Increase Your Child’s Chances Of Succeeding
There has been a lot of debate in recent years about preschool. Always topping the universal pre-k pros and cons list is the question, “Is it worth it?”
People want to know if their investment will pay off in the long run. Perhaps it does. At least, if scoring higher on state math exams matters to you.
Others may make the argument that it doesn’t matter, but at the end of the day, you’re sending your child to an institution where they will learn and grow to respect other adults. Chances are, it can’t hurt.
Con: It Makes Life Harder For The Parent
Yes, it’s all about the kids. But if the parents are struggling to make their schedules work around preschool, perhaps waiting another year is the best option.
The truth is, it’s not just about driving your kid to and from school. There’s meal arrangements, appointments, and events you’ll have to schedule into your already busy life.
If an early childhood education is going to compromise your job, health, marriage, or other commitments, it might be best to wait a little longer before enrolling.
Preschool Pros and Cons: Yes Or No?
At the end of the day, preschool comes down to what you think is best for your kid and how it fits into your life. If you can afford it and arrange your schedule around it, the preschool pros and cons are weighed more in favor of the ‘pros’.
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