To Redshirt or Not?
Redshirting is controversial. In a TV interview (click image on the right to watch it) we discussed the key aspects that make it so sticky.
A term once reserved for college athletes, it describes the growing trend of holding back a child from entering Kindergarten at age 5 and instead delaying entry till age 6.
Webinar on School Choice
In this webinar, I answered some of the hottest questions about choosing the right school. Public or Private? What about Gifted programs? What are some essential steps to take in choosing a school? Public now, Private later? Public and then an educational vacation every year? Check it out to get going on your school search.
For better viewability, check out the video here.
Public or Private
A first, longstanding question for parents in the search for the right school is: Public or Private. The answers to this question are not straightforward. A private school does not automatically ensure a “better” education. There are good reasons for choosing both types of schools. In a previous article I wrote, I outline the reasons for choosing both public and private schools.
Significance of Play
In a conversation on King5’s Parent-to-Parent, I addressed these questions on the Significance of Play in early years:
Do chilren not play in preschool?: How preschools are changing.
What play is intricately woven in with learning?: What is this play that is so integrated in with learning?
What do children learn through play?
Read complete answers to the questions here. For more topics related to choosing a school, read Essential Topics on Choosing a School.
Parent-to-Parent TV Interview
In a conversation on King5’s Parent-to-Parent, I addressed these questions:
What matters most: Relationships, Competence, Finding an interest and School-home partnership
Public v/s Private: Why parents choose each type of school. Read a detailed article on this.
What to look for on a school visit: Walls, Materials, Assessments, Homework, Schedule
What parents can do: Start early, Know your options, Talk to parents, Visit schools
For more topics related to choosing a school, read Essential Topics on Choosing a School.
New Day Northwest TV Interview
In a recent TV interview with Margaret Larson on New Day Northwest, I answered essential questions about choosing an Elementary school.
Some of the tips I provide are:
Know your options: Within both public and private schools parents have options. Public schools that are open to children from all neighborhoods are called “Choice” or “Option” schools. To learn more about your options, check out this Primer on School Options.
What matters: Relationships, a sense of competence, areas of interest and a connection between home and school make your child’s school experience meaningful.
Start early: The fall of the year before a child goes to Elementary school is a great time to start your search.
The school should fit your child and family: Focus on what works for your child and family. Consider logistical factors, your child’s unique needs and your hopes.
You can change your mind: If a school just doesn’t work for your child, you can switch schools but that should not be your first response. First, partner with your current school to make it work.