montessori kindergarten question

[tireddad]

my son is four years old and in a preschool. we are considering starting him in a montessori kindergarten next year. some friends have mentioned that since he was not in a montessori preschool it may not be advisable to start him in montessori kindergarten. in essence, it is now too late. any thoughts are appreciated. Thank you!

[nanette0269]

he will definitely have some catching up to do. If you are prepared to stay in a school which will continue to excel him even after kindergarden, then the extra effort next year is worth it.

But, if you intend to bring him to regular public school, is the increased workload and effort to get him indoctrinated into montessori worth it? If he handles things easily, then I'd say go for it. But, if change is hard for him...maybe keep him where he is.

[mamadebug]

My DS spent 2 years at a play based preschool, and then went to a Montessori school for kindergarten. The Montessori school was great and the transition was smooth. We are really glad we had him do K there. It wasn't too late at all.

[tireddad]

thanks!

thank you both very much for your helpful responses. now onto touring schools.

[mattemma04]

My ds was 5 going on 6 and had only 5 months of primary.He did fine.It was good for him.Our only regret is he did not get a full year because he had so much fun. I say go for it.Shoot,my dd was 8 or 9 when she was placed in lower el.She did fine.Kids adjust and catch up.If things don't work out you just try something else!

[HRJ]

Our school will not allow a new child as a kindergartener unless they have 1 yr of prior Montessori experience. I would probably push for it if you want to continue on w/ Montessori after kindergarten.