There are so many options when choosing a school for your child! – public, private, independent, catholic. For some parents, the decision is easy! They choose the school that is in their zone, that is nearest to them or that their other children go to. However, for some parents, the choice of what school to send their kids to can be more difficult and can require more thought. This is often the case when a child has special needs, such as autism, an intellectual disability, behavioural difficulties or anxiety. When this is the case, choosing a school can be a stressful decision as you want to pick a school where your child will feel the most supported.
Raising Children provides some general areas that may be worth taking into account when considering schools; including the schools size and class size, the facilities (playgrounds, homework groups, sporting teams), the opportunities for parents and family involvement, your preference in terms of public or private, the schools academic results and where your child’s friends are going.
Mainstream schools can provide assistance for your child, especially if they have access to funding or a special needs program within the school. However, there are circumstances where children benefit from specialised environments where the school is more equipped and resourced to provide the care that your child needs. After some research into schools in the area, making a visit to the school is a worthwhile exercise. Meet the principal and teachers. You will get a sense of the school by walking around and talking to the teachers. Prepare for the visit by having a list of questions for the principal. It may be worthwhile to make a list of the areas that are important for you and your child so that when contacting schools you can ask them specific questions.
Some factors to consider include;
- Whether your child is eligible for school based funding and if so, what level of support they will receive at school.
- Does the school have experience supporting children with special needs?
- Do they have any special needs programs?
- Do you know any parents whose kids go to the school? What information can they give you?
- Will the school work collaboratively with you to provide the best support for your child?
It is important to remember that every school will have strengths and the decision of what school to choose can be quite personal. Choose the school that you feel comfortable with and where you think your child will be happy and the most supported to achieve their best.
Written by Kids At Max – Psychologist