Changing Preschools

I don't know if this helps at all, but I'll give my input anyway. I have not switched preschools, however my daughter (3 yrs) just started this year at a Christian preschool. There are about 10 kids in her class and I chose it because they do many craft activities and music class and time to play as well. We don't go to church regularly because we live abit far from the one we like and belong to so that is another reason i chose Christian school so that she can also learn about it when we are unable to attend church. Preschool has made her come out of her shell quite alot actually. She used to be very shy and would cling to me and her father and never want to join in on anything, but since going she does very well now with interacting with other kids as well as other adults. I don't know anything about Catholics but maybe it's just a bit too strict and structured for your little guy. Maybe you could try and talk to some people about other preschools in your area and see what they have to say, or you could call around and see what they have to offer you and your boy and see what would be more suitable to his needs.

Hello,

Maybe a co-op preschool would be a good fit for your son. Every parent is required to parent help and be involved. If your son has trouble with transitions, this could be a great option, because I'm sure you could stay until he settled in and felt comfortable. I also highly recommend you talk to him before you make the switch and answer any questions he may have, as well as visit the new school before his official first day at the school.

I used to work in a kindergarten and the children that had the most trouble with the transition from preschool to kindergarten were the kids who just needed to know what was going to happen so they could feel comfortable with the new environment.

Best wishes to you as you find the right fit for your boy.

~P. G.
Portland Preschool Directory owner teams with Cultural Care to bring you flexible, affordable childcare!
http://www.PortlandPreschoolDirectory.com
http://www.VancouverPreschoolDirectory.com
http://www.MrsGowing.com

I'm not sure you'll find a smaller class size than 16 kids! But perhaps you should try to find a Montessori preschool. The structure is more open & sounds like something your son would enjoy. My girls went to Montessori preschool then Catholic Academy elementary. The preschool had about 20 kids, their elementary classes about 25 which is small for these parts (NYC). Best of luck to you!

Do you have a Waldorf school in your area? I believe they are very focused on natural rhythms, pretend play, etc. My son is in a Montessori. They are open ended in some ways but very rigid in others. They are also all a little different from each other.