Homeschooler/Unschooler moving to Ireland

[Euromom]

Hello. I need some help. We are moving to Dublin in August. Although, I am super excited about this move (can't wait to get back on the other side of the pond ) I'm a bit concerned about my unschooled 6yo and Irish laws. I believe children start school at 5??? I'm not against sending him it just wasn't an option this year. Do you think he'll have to be tested in? He is very bright (his favorite books are scientific textbooks, seriously ) yet, he has no interest in learning to read or write yet. I also don't mind keeping him at home till he's 'caught up'. I'd hate to see him sent back to kindy and be totally bored.

Any thoughts or other general helpful advice? Thanks.

[ExpatDeb]

Hey I live in Dublin now but am from California. I don't know much about the schooling for 6 year olds here but I just wanted to say hello as I don't know many moms out here.

[Euromom]

Yeah! Someone replied! So how are you liking it? Any general advice?

[ExpatDeb]

To be honest I am missing my home in Los Angeles. We have been here for 2 1/2 years and it is just way different than California. I am not enjoying it so much but with the yucky economy and great job DH has, it is silly to move home.

I manage-found some stores that sell the peanut butter we like, found a doctor that is similar to the doctors I had in the States, and I am starting to look for a job.

I mainly miss family and friends-haven't really made any over here.

[humptydumpty]

When living in Ireland I was a student or working; not too focused on the parenting aspects.
But from what I know: most schools are confessional (catholic or protestant) schools. There are private and public schools. I guess they would try to put your child in a class that suits him and his learning most.
Please check Irish law, when I was there (1990s) every child that came to the country under the age of 10 had to learn Irish/Gaelic. Which is not so easy...
Ireland is expensive, so make sure your income is high enough to afford decent housing in a nice area.
Good luck and enjoy it there!

[erika978]

Hiya. Just seeing this thread now.

Most kids in ireland start school around age 4 or 5, depending on when they were born. If born before June 21st (think it is), they CAN start at 4 (but you could wait until your child is 5) but after that, they'll have ot wait until they are 5. For example, my dd was born in August so she won't be starting school until the September after she turns 5.

The first 2 years in school are called junior infants and senior infants and it is mostly there to get the child used to a school structure. Senior infants will start with reading, writing, basic math (if even that), Irish and so on (and yes your son will have to learn irish).

He may not have to stay behind the year. The best thing would be to talk to the school. If anything, teachers are encouraging parents NOT to teach children to read and write before starting school.

The main type of primary school in Ireland is the national school. This is usually Catholic run BUT of course children of other religions can attend (and since it is state funded they shouldn't be turned away. it is a sore point with non Catholic parents though). It is free (outside of some admin costs and books etc). Also free are the newest types of school, the Educate Together schools (no one religion is taught above all other and it centres around inclusiveness for all, tolerance and respect and especially parental involvement in the management and running of the school). However, the waiting lists for these are extremely long (I put my dd's name down when she was 7 weeks old and that couldn't guarantee me a place). It will be worth mentioning that you are new to the country as this may help. There are private schools and they are very good but honestly, the ETs and national schools have very high standards and I would save your money.

Good luck with your move. I live in Dublin (born and raised). It is nice but is expensive. Prices are coming down a lot at the moment though due to the downturn. Whereabouts will you be settling?

[Euromom]

Hello Irish Mamas! I am here now... as of 9 days ago! We've settled in the heart of Dublin. We are finding of way around pretty well and enjoying all the sites. My boys are being troopers getting used to all the walking... they were used to walking and riding bikes in the States but it's just not the same, especially with jetlag. We are glad to back in Europe(ish) are ready to meet more people.

Thanks erika978 for all your help! You were so informative. I really appreciated it! Sorry it took me so long to respond. It was a crazy move, but I guess we're neighbors now. Maybe we'll meet someday outside of cyberworld.