Raising Good Humans Ep 78: The Key to Kindergarten Admissions + Listener Q and A
Jan 22, 2021
Jamie Bacall, a leading educator and school consultant, dives into the intricate world of kindergarten admissions. She shares insights on selecting the right private school, navigating testing, and acing interviews. The discussion includes how the pandemic has reshaped admissions processes and highlights the importance of aligning educational philosophies with children's needs. Jamie also emphasizes the significance of clear communication in showcasing a child's strengths, providing practical tips for parents to ensure smooth transitions into kindergarten.
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Episode notes
Most Kindergartners Are Flexible
- Most four- and five-year-olds will adapt to a wide range of kindergarten environments.
- Only a minority need highly specialized structure or pedagogy to thrive.
Talk To Parents, Not Just Websites
- Talk to current parents to learn a school's lived strengths and challenges rather than trusting brochure copy.
- Ask about responsiveness, differentiation, field trips, social culture, and how DEI shows up in practice.
Traditional vs Progressive Spectrum
- 'Traditional' emphasizes rote learning, tests, and academic rigor while 'progressive' emphasizes experiential, discussion-based, project learning.
- Many schools fall on a spectrum and blend elements of both approaches.