The right school is not just about grades; it is about providing a safe space where your child can grow and learn. That’s why choosing the right school is crucial for your child’s academic success. But what if the perfect school chosen for your child, despite all your research and effort, isn’t the perfect fit? Sometimes, parents overlook certain aspects that make an educational institution the right fit.
Generally, many parents focus on superficial factors like test scores, the school’s interior, and its online ratings without considering the essential elements that contribute to their children’s overall growth. Well, this decision-making process is not as simple as parents think it might be. It is often more complex than it appears. Therefore, in this blog, we are breaking down the top 5 mistakes most parents make during the school admission process. Additionally, we will explore the main factors that should be considered while selecting the right school for your child.
5 Most Common Mistakes Parents Make When Selecting a School
Here are the top five common mistakes that most parents make while selecting a school for their child. If you are in search of the perfect school for your kid, avoid these pitfalls and find an educational setting where your child can thrive.
Prioritising Brand Name Over Quality
One of the common mistakes parents make while selecting the right fit for their child is chasing behind school rankings and popularity. Many well-ranking schools maintain their reputation through strict grading rather than focusing on quality teaching. One of the mistakes to avoid is focusing solely on marketing and not looking beyond it to provide the best schooling for your children. A less famous school with dedicated teachers and a supportive environment often provides better growth opportunities than a “name brand” institution.
Neglecting Curriculum & Teaching Methods
Many parents select the school for their child based on the rakings or ratings scored by the institution without considering their child’s learning needs. Teaching methodology and curriculum vary from school to school. Some institutions may focus on rote learning methods, while others focus on practical and experimental education. Always choose the curriculum and teaching approach that suits your child’s natural learning style. The best school is not about rankings; it is about finding a place where your kids’ strengths can grow and be strengthened by appropriate teaching methodologies.
Ignoring the School’s Proximity
While quality education is important, long commutes can significantly impact your child’s daily life. Long hours of rides to or from school each day leave very little time for their homework, tuition, after-school activities, and family interactions. All of this chaotic schedule can make them feel tired and irritated. Many parents often choose long-distance schools for their children in the name of a good education, which comes with its downsides. A school in close proximity with a good reputation might be better than a school in a distant perfect location.
Excessive Pressure on the Child
Many leading schools in Najafgarh conduct admission interviews, which often leads parents to push their children too hard or have high expectations for them, scoring well in their admission exams and interviews. This can create unnecessary stress on children, leading to test anxiety, low self-esteem, and dislike of education. Humans, be they adults or kids, perform well in a supported and less pressurised environment. Therefore, parents should not over-pressurize their children and avoid treating the admission process as a high-stakes test. These tests do not determine your child’s future worth or capabilities.
Overlooking the School’s Fee Structure
Many schools also include hidden costs like uniforms, school field trips, technology fees, or special program fees in their fee structure. Parents often overlook these costs, which can add up to 20 to 40% to the base tuition fees. As a result, they face an unexpected financial strain, forcing parents to make decisions about continuing at the school. Therefore, parents should always check all potential expenses for better decision-making that won’t disrupt the child’s schooling.
What Are the Key Considerations That Determine the Best School?
After understanding the common mistakes to avoid during school admission, it is important to focus on some key factors that help you choose the right school for your child. Here are some of these factors:
Academic Considerations
Before searching for the right schools, choose the board of education that matches your child’s learning needs. Then, create a list of educational organisations that offer the curriculum of the board you have chosen. Make sure that the school balances and maintains the education standards with flexibility to accommodate different learners.
Learning Environment
The learning environment you select for your child significantly impacts their learning. Try to visit classrooms and observe student engagement and teacher’s methodologies. A positive and supportive environment encourages curiosity and logical thinking among students, polishing them for a successful career.
Teacher-To-Student Ratio
Another key consideration during school admission is checking the teacher-to-student ratio. This factor determines the number of students in each class. A smaller class size allows for personalised attention. Parents should always select the school where faculties can identify and address each student’s learning needs.
Extracurricular Activities
This factor plays an essential part in shaping your child’s career. Extracurricular activities like sports, arts, and clubs develop teamwork, creativity, and leadership skills beyond textbooks. Choose the school that offers divers range of programs, suiting your child’s interests and talents.
Practical Exposures: (Lab)
Hands-on learning in labs and workshops encourages interest and practical exposure among students. So, choose the leading schools in Najafgarh or wherever you reside, that focus on hands-on learning besides theoretical knowledge. Check if the school offers science, computer, and other specialised labs.
Conclusion
Every parent wants a good education for their child, but in the race to enrol them in the best school, they often make mistakes by focusing on superficial factors. Schooling goes beyond ratings and grand ambience. It is about finding an environment that nurtures your child’s talent and provides a supportive learning experience. By avoiding common mistakes that most parents make, you can set the foundation for a successful academic journey for your child.
If you are searching for the right choice for your child’s academic future, consider enrolling your child at Mata Nand Kaur Public School. Our CBSE-affiliated school blends a combination of academics and extracurricular activities, establishing a learning environment for students that nurtures every aspect of a child’s growth and development. Contact us today!
