Choosing the right preschool for your child is a big decision — high-quality early childhood education plants the seed for lifelong learning. Many ask whether private preschool vs. public preschool is the right choice for their family, and there’s no one right or wrong answer. Your choice is influenced by which factors matter to you most, including cost, class size, educational philosophy, and curriculum.
Preschools offer families so much more than child care. In addition to providing a safe space for children between ages 3 and 5 and caring staff to teach them, preschools are designed to nurture your child’s development.
Although every preschool has its own educational philosophy, each facility teaches your child the foundational skills they need for their future schooling (and for life). From learning the joys of reading to the social-emotional growth that comes from interacting with other preschool-age children, preschool has a long-term impact. This is why it’s so important to find a preschool program, public or private, that supports your child as they grow.
Private preschool offers individualized or specialized learning experiences.
Private preschool tuition can vary widely depending on the school and your location. Some programs cost less than $6,000 annually, while the highest price tags can range upward of $16,000 a year. Many private preschools offer financial assistance so that children of all economic backgrounds can access high-quality early education.
These educational philosophies commonly guide private preschool programs.
Public preschools also offer high-quality education in an environment where your child can thrive.
Lesson plans for public preschools are standardized and based on local district guidelines that set benchmarks for pre-kindergarten preparation. Public preschool teachers are also required to meet state and federal certification requirements that don’t apply to private school caregivers.
Although residency and child age are often the only requirements for public preschool eligibility, open spots can be limited due to high demand. Check your state or municipality's guidelines for application deadlines, and be aware that your local public preschool may have a waitlist.
Public preschools may not always be free for all children, but there are schools supported by a combination of state and federal government funding, making them more affordable for families. The cost and availability of public preschool can vary based on location, income, and specific state or district policies. These programs aim to provide greater access for families of all financial backgrounds, often resulting in a diverse learning environment. Eligibility typically depends on residing within the boundaries of your local school district, but it’s important to check specific requirements and availability in your area.
Public preschool curricula must adhere to standards guided by your local school district, while private preschools have increased flexibility in the educational philosophies they emphasize in the classroom.
The average public preschool teacher-to-child ratio varies by state. For example, in California, the average is around 10 children per caregiver. This variance is true with private preschools too — in New York, the ratio may be as low as five or six children per teacher. Private preschools thus have more capacity to offer the individualized attention that caters to your child’s personal learning style.
Budgetary concerns may be the biggest deciding factor when weighing the pros and cons of private vs. public preschool. Private preschool tuition can be higher than some families can afford, whereas public preschools are free. If you think a private preschool is the best choice for your child, though, it’s worth researching which schools offer financial assistance.
Since public preschool enrollment eligibility is based on residence, public preschools are often in your neighborhood, making for an easy commute. Private preschools, on the other hand, can be just about anywhere, so a short walk is as likely as an hour-long drive.
Your children will enjoy enriching extracurricular activities at both types of preschools. Public preschools in particular often have connections to programs offered through local elementary schools.
Every child has a unique way of learning, and you should keep this in mind when researching preschools’ educational philosophies. For example, if your child loves to play on their own, a Montessori approach might be the perfect fit.
It’s important to see a preschool’s classroom dynamics for yourself. Visit any preschools you’re considering and speak with the caregivers. This is a great time to ask any and all questions, from daily activities to cleanliness protocol.
Preschool is the first stop on your child’s schooling journey, so finding a program that helps them flourish is essential for their future. Some children do better in private preschool programs with creative curriculums, while others thrive in public schools. Often, it’s not a matter of public vs. private, but which individual school is the best fit for your child.
When you’re deciding between public or private preschool, it’s all about factoring in your family’s priorities and values. Wonderschool’s child care finder can help you find a public or private preschool that fits your child’s needs. Filter by cost and program type to find a preschool where your little one can blossom and set your child up for a great education.
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