Switching from traditional/play based preschool

[SomedayMom]

In our current city, we didn't have a Montessori option for preschool. I always wanted that, but it isn't here. So my older son is in a great traditional/play-based preschool and he's done great.

We have one year left here and next summer we'll be moving to a bigger city. I am positive I will put my younger son in Montessori. He'll be 2 when we move.

I have the option of putting my older son in a similar school to his current school or putting him in Montessori for pre-K and K. I'd really like to put him in Montessori both for the method and to keep my boys together.

Does anyone have any input on how kids at that age do starting Montessori or switching from a different method?

He's independent, smart, spirited, and my guess is he'd do just fine, but I'd love input from anyone who has actually been there.

Then I just have to decide which school. I'm going from not having the option of Montessori to having several good options nearby...

[Rose-Roget]

I don't have a lot of input yet, but that's what we're doing this year. Ds is about the same age as your ds1, and he's been in a traditional/play-based preschool until now. I'm SO excited for him to start in 1-1/2 weeks! I feel like he really THRIVED during his trial time in M. If my ds is kept engaged and stimulated, then he thrives. There are so many options and enough variety to the day to keep him thoroughly engaged. I bet your ds will have a similar adjustment.

[MattBronsil]

My suggestion is to visit the school and see. If it's a good school, it should be a very easy transition. The children I have taught that transfer come in and are excited every day. (Just my personal experience)

[KBecks]

I agree, I would talk to the school about what they think. I think they would likely welcome him and help him through the transition phase with no big issues.