What’s Best for Your Child? Finding the Right Schools and Teen Programs
  • Parenting

While many parents are relieved to have their kids back in school, Ellyn’s doing her best to keep her stress at bay. That’s because now is the time that she and her wife, Cindy, have to determine the best kindergarten for their son for next year: public or private, secular or religious, Montessori, or Waldorf. “It’s overwhelming to find a school that reflects our values,” says Ellyn. “That’s why we’ve been consulting with a Parents Place expert to better understand our options and how to make the right decision for Bradley.”

“October and November are the busiest times of year for parents who are researching schools for their children,” says Stephanie Agnew, BA, Parents Place Coordinator in San Mateo and an authority on school choice. “In addition to going on school tours, attending information sessions, and filling out applications, they need to sit down and talk among themselves and with their children about what will be the ‘best fit’ for their sons and daughters.”

That’s not all they will be talking about. In addition to figuring out educational needs, many parents also begin to discuss extracurricular activities their children may wish to pursue. That’s where JFCS’ YouthFirst program can help them. YouthFirst offers many leadership, service learning, and vocational opportunities for junior and high school students that enable them clarify their values, fulfill the B’nai Mitzvot requirements, and contribute in meaningful ways to their community. Learn more about upcoming activities by calling 415-359-2463 or contacting the YouthFirst office nearest you.

Here are Parents Place’s upcoming school choice programs:

  • San Francisco Preschool Preview Night, Wed., Oct. 22, 5:30 – 7:30 pm,   San Francisco County Fair Building, Golden Gate Park
  • Private School Elementary School Fair,  Tue., Oct. 28, 5:30 – 7:30 pm, Parents Place Palo Alto
  • Webinar: Public or Private: Finding the Best Elementary School for Your Child, Tue., Nov. 4, 12:00 – 1:00 pm
  • Private Elementary School Admissions Panel Discussion, Thu., Nov. 6, 7:00 – 9:00 pm, Parents Place San Mateo

 

Posted by Admin on October 3, 2014