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When planning to enroll their children in kindergarten, many parents face a difficult dilemma. Which kindergarten – public or private – is better to choose? Now we will explain the advantages of private kindergartens, reveal some of the “cons” and share secrets that will help adults make the right decision. Choose the right one, “yours” private kindergarten – this is skill. The kindergarten must meet both the requirements for the quality of education and the expectations of parents who are willing to pay substantial monthly fees.

What is a private kindergarten?

“Correct” private kindergartens are officially registered pre-school education institutions (PSEs), operating in accordance with the law and having a state license to carry out current activities. Having a license for a kindergarten indicates that:

• The qualifications of teachers and the pedagogical methods they use correspond to state educational standards.
• The preschool premises meet all established safety requirements and standards.
• The kindergarten has the necessary material and technical base and genuine conditions for a child to stay throughout the day.

State control over the activities of private kindergartens is exercised through licensing and accreditation, as well as certification of teachers and certification of programs. Like municipal children’s institutions, private kindergartens are subject to inspections by Rospotrebnadzor, the State Fire Inspectorate, the State Labor Inspectorate and other governing bodies.

Advantages of private kindergartens

Among the main advantages of private kindergartens, the following deserve special attention:

• Highly qualified teachers. As a rule, the selection of commercial dow professionals is carried out in accordance with the most demanding and stringent criteria. When hiring a new employee, the administration takes into account not only his professionalism and experience, but also his personal qualities, especially his attitude towards children.
• Convenient work schedule. Many private kindergartens work late (until 8-9 pm) and, to some extent, organize their hours. Each parent can independently choose the optimal mode for their child to attend preschool.
• The primary focus is on the child’s comprehensive development. Excellent private kindergartens offer an extensive educational program, incorporating effective and innovative teaching methods. Most commercial preschools are fully equipped with modern teaching materials, visual aids, games, and educational toys. In addition to preparing children for school, the educational process includes classes in dance, drawing, music, and foreign languages.
• Comfortable conditions. Private kindergartens are typically located in spacious, well-renovated facilities. They feature cozy interiors, polite and friendly staff, an engaging daily schedule, and a varied, delicious menu. Everything is designed to ensure that the child feels comfortable.
• Parental oversight is available over the educational process and the child’s stay at the preschool. If necessary, parents can attend classes, assess the condition of the premises and playgrounds, and supervise the food preparation process. Individualized menus are available for children if their health requires special dietary and nutritional arrangements.
• A personalized approach to children is available. Unlike city kindergartens, private kindergartens practice group education of young children. The number of children in a group typically does not exceed 10-15, but several specialists, rather than just one, are involved in the educational process. These conditions allow each child to receive increased attention from the teacher, which promotes the development of their individual abilities.

Disadvantages of a Private Kindergarten

The main disadvantage of private kindergartens is the high cost of their services. The average cost ranges from 12, 000 to 20, 000 rubles.

Another disadvantage of commercial preschools is their inconvenient location. While city kindergartens are available in almost every neighborhood, choosing private preschools often means parents have to travel daily with their children to the other side of the city.

In some cases, their extensive educational programs can also be a disadvantage of commercial preschools. Excessive “enthusiasm” in preschool management, accompanied by a comprehensive upbringing of the child and the introduction of various innovative technologies, turns into something detrimental to the child’s health and becomes the cause of fatigue and deterioration of well-being.

How to choose the right private kindergarten

The following recommendations will help you make the right decision when choosing a private kindergarten for your child

• Start your search by visiting a kindergarten located in close proximity to your home. The best option is a kindergarten located less than 30 minutes away from you.
• When visiting a kindergarten, ask the person in charge of the institution to familiarize you with educational activities, documentation for the premises occupied, the charter of the preschool and the license to implement the contract for the provision of services. Study the terms of the contract in detail. Particular attention should be paid to the presence of written clauses guaranteeing the constancy of the amount paid for services throughout the entire term of the contract.
• Ask questions and clarify all current nuances. Ask about the methods used in the educational program. Which school is the focus, public or private, and what is the qualification level of the local staff?
• Show the facilities of the kindergarten and the surrounding area and assess their compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards and safety requirements. Talk to teachers and check the doctor’s work schedule. Walk into the kitchen and get an idea of ​​the quality of the children’s menu and catering in general.

If a detailed “acquaintance” with a private kindergarten gives you doubts, it is better to wait until the end of the contract and make direct efforts to find another person who best meets the requirements of the institution. This step not only allows you to avoid annoying mistakes, but also provides the child with the best conditions for full learning and development.