Can you believe the school year is just around the corner already?! (That sentiment seems to be echoed by educators and parents alike.) It has been two years since I left my full-time role as a school psychologist, and my body still responds with a mixture of excitement and nervousness every August.
But this year is a little different—my little lady is enrolling in Pre-K at the local elementary school! Excitement, nervousness, and relief are what I feel about the impending start. I never planned on enrolling her in school quite this early, but after weighing the options, it felt like the best choice for her.
So, how did I make this decision with (80%) confidence it was the right choice?
Access. In Virginia, there is a program called Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) which serves high-risk preschool-aged students to receive early intervention services. Currently, my daughter is in a preschool that does not have teachers with formal training in early education, especially for those with unique learning needs. For me, this was a no-brainer: she will have access to highly trained professionals to address her needs.
Free. We all know how expensive early childhood care is. Freeing up the literal second mortgage we pay for her to go to a preschool will allow us to better align with our family goals (such as vacations and putting money towards her Virginia 529).
Comfort. With my background, I know what to expect moving into a school, how she will be treated, and what my rights are as a parent. At a private preschool, I always felt like ultimately I needed to meet their expectations as they could kick us out if we didn't "align" with what they believed.
Although I am 80% confident this is our best option, it still comes with fear. My daughter will most likely be the youngest in her class. Transitions are rough for her. She is a child with special education needs. All of these fears are valid.
However, I know how to navigate the system. I have skills to advocate. I know how to create a partnership between myself and school professionals. I am also confident that there are bumps in the road, but I am confident in my abilities to support my child.
Do you want to learn more about working with me to build partnerships within your child's school?
Do you want to have a thought partner in helping you feel confident in making educational choices for your child?
Or maybe you're not sure where to start, which is okay, too!
Feel free to reach out to see if my services can help!
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