Advice For Switching From Public To Private School

Deciding that your child should make the switch to a private school is a big decision. The academic and social adjustments can affect not just your child, but your whole family. However, if you’ve weighed the options and decided that switching from public to private school is the best course of action, take comfort in knowing that private schools make it a point to help families ease into the transition. Here’s some valuable advice to make the switch as smooth as possible.

Be Prepared

Proper preparation is arguably the most important thing you can do to ensure stability when switching from public to private school. Do you have all the school supplies your child needs? If they need a uniform, make sure you have it ready for their first day. If your child has everything they need, this will take considerable pressure off of them.

Include Your Child in the Process

Switching schools is an important, formative experience, and your child will want to feel like they have some level of input on it. Include them in the process of selecting a school to ensure that they feel more comfortable. Once you’ve chosen a school, attend orientation sessions and tour the campus with them.

Keep Home Life Stable

Switching from public to private school will be a big change for your child, so don’t contribute to the anxiety at home. Your child will count on the routines of home life to be a stable, neutral zone where things are less unpredictable. Stick to these routines, and also plan to spend some extra time with them for added support.

Get Involved Right Away

Both parents and children should start participating in school activities as soon as possible. Parents should make it a point to mingle with instructors and other parents in order to get a good idea of the private school experience. Children, on the other hand, should find extracurricular activities and start fostering a strong sense of community with their peers.

Focus on Your Child’s Strengths

Private schools don’t share the rigid, standardized test-taking culture of public schools. If your child has a particular interest like literature, STEM careers, or the arts, let an instructor know. Switching from public to private school can create great opportunities for your child to thrive outside of a testing-focused environment!

If you and your child are ready to take the leap into an Austin private school, contact Kirby Hall School today. Since 1976, we’ve been leaving a legacy of academic success in a loving, nurturing environment. We can’t wait to help your child excel!