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By Lucy Chaille Over the years many questions are asked of the teachers
regarding which class is the best one to register for. Here
are a few factors to take into account that might help you
make your decision. Time of day: Morning is of course the most popular
choice. For the early risers, morning classes are the time
to get things done! The child who has been up since 5:00,
has run out of things to do and is beginning to climb the
walls. You and your child are ready to head off to school,
arrive promptly on time and she leaps into the day. However,
if you find that your child has a hard time separating in
the morning or getting out the door early perhaps the
afternoon is for you. Some children need more time at home
before transitioning to school. Teachers have found that
children who come in the afternoon are well fed, wide-awake
and excited to be there. Parents have less trouble
separating and many enjoy their afternoons at home alone, no
longer trying to entertain their "what are we going to do
now?" child. I loved having my children go to the afternoon
class. We had wonderful mornings at home, a nice drive to
school, and I loved getting dinner going and work done in
the afternoon. They gave up napping and went to bed earlier
and slept in late. So when looking at morning vs. afternoon,
think about your family dynamic and the answer will be
clear. Two day vs. three day: Three day is what the
children like best. The children see each other more often
and get to do more things. However the two-day mixed age is
a great option. Kids are still just as prepared for
kindergarten and you only have to parent help once a month.
As for the younger groups, two days is just the right
amount. Pre-K, Kindergarten or Mixed Age?: If your child
meets the required age for the Pre-K/Kinders class and is
ready, it is a great option for the older preschooler. As
for the Kindergarten class, parents have found that the
academic standards are very high while still allowing time
for play and creativity. Can a five-year-old go to the mixed
age and still be ready for kindergarten? You bet! Five year
olds are ready to learn big time, and they enjoy being the
big leader in the classroom. So make your choice on time,
cost and your child's readiness skills. Your current teacher
can help you with placement ideas. Same Teacher or Switch?: That's a tough one. In an
ideal situation we believe that if one can stay with the
same teacher it can be very beneficial. Although the
teachers repeat certain material, the older child will
perceive the material differently and take something new out
of the experience. After all one can never visit enough fire
stations. I should know I have gone over 44 times and still
love it. However, switching teachers can be wonderful too.
The teachers at CCC are all so special that it is one more
special relationship your child gets to have. This year I
have several students that switched into my class. At first
they had some hesitancy, but low and behold I am now having
picture presents made for me, getting hugs and kisses and
hearing comments like, "Teacher Lucy you are my best
friend." Switching or staying with the same teacher seems
like a minor issue with such an amazing teacher team at CCC.
Kids are great adapters so I would suggest parents pick the
schedule that works best for them. In conclusion my suggestion is don't worry. Having grown
children I have found that the key to a successful school
experience is a caring teacher, a creative classroom and a
happy parent. So put all your options in a hat and pick! You
can't go wrong!
How to Pick a Class