Exploring The Importance Of Recess

Most parents want the best for their children, and that includes a strong and well-balanced education. The foundation of a child's education begins in elementary school, so choosing the right school is something that is very important to most people. The public school that your child is assigned to may not always be the best option. As a parent, it is well worth your time to do some research and learn about the different schools in your area that may be the best fit for your child. If you're in the process of choosing a K6 school for your child to attend, use the following tips:

Consider All of Your Options

When it comes to choosing a school for your child, it is important to consider all of your options. Most areas have a combination of public, charter, and private elementary schools. Before you make a decision, it is a good idea to learn as much as you can about the different K6 schools in your area. Don't automatically rule out a private school because tuition is required — many private schools offer scholarship programs, and some states offer vouchers that parents can use to pay for private school. It is well worth your time to tour all of the local schools to help you determine which one is the best fit for your child.

Ask About Student-Teacher Ratios

Before enrolling your child in a K6 school, make sure that you ask about the student-teacher ratios. Typically, kids tend to perform better when there is a low student-teacher ratio. This is especially true in lower grades where the students are younger and may need more personalized instruction in order to master a skill. In addition to asking about student-teacher ratio, also find out if classrooms have aides or paraprofessionals to help assist the teacher and the students.

Know What Type of Enrichment Is Provided

Academics are very important when choosing a K6 school, but students in kindergarten through 6th grade can't be expected to sit at their desks learning for the whole day. Make sure that you know what type of enrichment activities a school offers. This includes courses such as music, art, and physical education. It is also a good idea to look for a school that offers recess several times a day. Recess is important — it gives children time to exercise outdoors, burn off energy, and develop social skills with peers.