We recently moved back to the US after a year of having our son attend school in the UK. Honestly, I thought he would do just fine in public school, so we enrolled him in our neighborhood public school, where he remained for one semester of the first grade. Boy, was I wrong! However, rather than tell you everything that went wrong with his public school experience, let me tell you how our situation really turned around once we found Pebblecreek Montessori (PCM).
After interviewing numerous private schools, I was convinced that I was on to something very special when I entered PCM. That said, after growing up in the public school system myself, I was a bit apprehensive at first. I was also *very* nervous to put my son through, yet, another change since he does not adapt to change well. I felt as it I had one shot to get it right; I just couldn't bare to put him in another bad situation. I was very concerned that if I didn't 'get it right', his impression of school would be very jaded and he likely would not embrace school, but rather reject school in general, which, of course, no parent wants.
Fast forward a few short months: my son is now starting his third month at PCM and *still* tells me weekly how much he loves it and how thankful he is that my husband and I made the switch for him. Within a few short weeks of being at PCM, I felt as if I had gotten my old son back. His confidence has returned, and most importantly, he is happy. He has told me numerous times that the environment is very good for him - challenging, yet still fun. I could honestly go on and on and on....
The school we chose for our son is the single most important factor in his development, in my opinion. While making the decision is a tough one for parents, I encourage you to reach out and call parents whose children currently go there. The school office should be able to provide you with contact information.
Best of luck!
Pros: My son is taught in a meaningful way, not in a 'one size fits all' manner.
Cons: N/A
more