Lin Peimin
Peimin has 2 children and strives towards making simple, daily activities a true joy for them to engage in, to develop their confidence to have a go at things, and to explore different mediums to express their ideas and individuality. She is also the Director of EtonHouse Community Fund.
Choosing a preschool for your child can seem overwhelming and challenging. After all, it is where their educational journey begins. They will be exposed to a new environment and many changes. We understand many parents will probably be wrought with confusion when it comes to this decision-making process. Where should you begin? Perhaps, take a step back and start with ‘Why’. Reflect deeply on your own goals and philosophy as a parent.
Besides considering the curriculum, cost and location, child care needs and school culture, we narrow it down to these factors to help you gain a better perspective.
Your parenting goal
Your own philosophy as a parent.
An authentic goal not only appeals on a logical level, but it also speaks to who you are as an individual. It moves beyond social expectations and reflects a deeply personal and unique understanding of your values and your greatest desires for your child.
Your image of a child?
Each one of us has inside ourselves an image of the child that directs us as we begin to relate to a child.
Our image of the child influences our view of children, our relationship with, and expectations of them.
Your child is unique and capable. Get rid of that voice in your head that tells you that you ‘should’ be doing things a certain way and carve your own path forward for your child and yourself. If you’re making a choice because others are, or because you think you ‘should’, then you’re inviting into yourself a sense of resistance and obligation. Make sure you’re choosing a school because you ‘want to’, and be confident that your choice is the one that motivates and reaches your heart and mind.
As you reflect on the factors above, do remember your child is unique. By observing and listening to our children, you gain unique insights into their needs, desires and interests. So as cliché as it sounds, only you know what's best for your child and yourself. Therefore, instead of jumping into the bandwagon when choosing a school, start by goal setting and reflection, and you'll find your search for a pre-school a meaningful journey, instead of a stressful chore.