You are in a dilemma. There is an outstanding kindergarten teacher at one school that you would love for your child to attend his first year. However, the other grades arent that great in the school and you want to switch your child to a different school right after kindergarten. But, you are wondering if it is important for your child to stay in the same school from kindergarten on or if it really matters. Of course, there are benefits and drawbacks to this particular situation. The following discussion might help you see the benefits of staying in the same school.

Same Friends
Making new friends is important and socialization is key to helping your child fit in and develop lasting friendships. When your child goes to kindergarten he will immediately make new friends and probably even have a best friend and a particular group he enjoys playing with. This will lead to play dates throughout the year and your child will really develop some great friends. However, if you switch your child to a different school after kindergarten he will lose his friends and be forced to make new ones. Sometimes this transition is very difficult for kids especially after they already feel comfortable in a particular group and have gone through the phase of making new friends. Sending him to a new school where he has to start the process again may be too much for your child.

Accustomed to School
Another benefit to keeping your child at the same elementary school is that he is already accustomed to the school. He is familiar with the schools campus, knows where the lunchroom and bathrooms are, knows the rules, and he feels comfortable. Sending him to a new school means he will feel lost and will need to learn everything again. He will be starting from scratch.

Making the Decision
If you have the option of keeping your child in the same school from kindergarten on it is probably the best idea. There are some situations where it is not a good idea due to certain circumstances and if these arise you will know what they are. However, as long as your child is happy, has friends, and is learning then keeping him at the same school is a good idea. If you move or something of that nature then your child will have to switch schools and simply adjust. However, if your kid is already adjusted and happy then do your best to keep him at the same school. It will make the next school year easier and your child will more than likely excel.

Posted in Kindergarten

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