Choosing the right school or training centre for your child can be very, very difficult. It’s not an easy process at all and something we as parents shouldn’t take lightly. Whether starting out in primary school, moving to secondary school or if you are like me and it is choosing the right training centre for David, there are a lot of things to be considered.
I really don’t like when I hear parents are stressed waiting for an offer of a place and it annoys me even more when parents accept what’s given to them as they feel under pressure to accept. Even though they may know in their heart is not the right place for their child.
This should not be a bureaucratic issue.
After going through this process many times with my 28-year-old son, I have a few ideas that have helped me. The most important thing to remember is that the people who run these organisations are nice, friendly, and approachable and want to do their best for your child.
However, the number of parents who phone me to say that they have many issues with the head people of organisations is unbelievable. So the most crucial step is to have somebody willing to help and who you feel is on your side. Otherwise, you’re fighting a losing battle and it’s not worth it. Don’t send your child there; find another place.
Go by your instinct here if you have a good feeling, that is one of the best starts you could hope for. You don’t have to send your child to the best, the biggest or the shiniest school. Remember, it’s what will work for your child.
I always went to the facility first on my own. Then, to be honest, it’s up to David after he sees the place and met with the head people; how does he feel about it? Would he like to go there? And does he have any questions.
David, at all interviews, loves to ask questions, at least one that I haven’t thought about. The key really is finding a place that would challenge David a little, but that he would be safe and happy there. I didn’t want him in a centre where he would regress, but I also didn’t want it to overwhelm him either.
If David is content and happy getting up in the morning and going into his centre, then I know I am on the right path. If he is surrounded by people who understand him, who support him and want to bring out the best in him that’s all I need as a mum.
If David learns a bit of independence, builds life skills, makes a few friends and does something he enjoys again. Then we have struck gold.
This might not suit your child, and remember, you know best.
Last line for you in this is.
If David is happy then so am I.