Pre-K or not?

[mom.of.two]

Hello!  I am looking to get some advice from some experienced mamas!

I've been fretting about my childrens' education since my first was born 4 1/2 years ago!  We live in a not good public school so I have looked into Montessori, private Christian, home school and Waldorf.  My husband and I have finally decided that we really think the local Waldorf school is the best fit for us.

So now I am trying to decide if we should send our daughter to pre-k next year.  We are by no means rich but think we can swing her tuition.  (Once 2 of our 3 kids are in I will have to work at least part time to pay for their tuition).  So I can't decide if we should just save the money as it's really the same as K any way? 

I think she is totally capable of going (I started K when I was her age!)  I just can't determine what she wants and what is best.  I definetly think there are social factors that she would benefit from. She's heard me harp on her to share with her brother enough, she tends to listen better to other authority figures sometimes...so anyway...there are pros and cons of both.  So I was curious your thoughts.

I also have a 9 month old and 2 1/2 year old...so the taking to and fro to school could be a pain...but may be worth having the 3 mornings a week with just 2 children...

Thanks in advance!!

[lyrebird]

Pre-kindy worked really well for us, but I had to lug the baby along for pick ups and drop offs, which interfered with his sleep patterns and was exhausting in itself, especially as I have back problems. I think at that age a lot depends on how it fits in with your family and also on the child's personality. Some children enjoy getting out and about and others really benefit more from being at home and involved in home life. It's a good preparation for full time. Sometimes with younger children around the eldest can do with a bit of time away, though 3 days seems a lot, we had only two days. 

i'm not sure what we'll do with number two - he's in family daycare at the moment and I'm hoping he'll be there till kindy, though his personality might be better suited to pre-school. Not sure either. Good luck in making your decision - I guess you can always pull out if it doesn't work, and will give you an idea of Waldorf education.