What makes a good first grade experience? More time outdoors and hands-on, or more order and studying with books?

Which of these is more in line with 6 year olds' needs and development, according to current research or your experience?

(1) School A: Kids spend part of the day working in a garden or caring for farm animals, another part in swim class and folkloric dance class. The academic part is in 2 languages with good quality books, but it's less demanding. The kids seem medium organized, like not chaotic but also not super obedient. 2 teachers for 20 kids. Parents' comments here are that their kid is happy but some think they are not advancing fast enough academically.

(2) School B: It's more orderly, there is more focus on academics and the method is pretty traditional (desks in rows, books, workbooks, an occasional triptych). Also in 2 languages with the same books. They do have art, music, and PE, but there is less outdoor space to roam around in. 1 teacher for 20 kids. The school seems very organized. Parents' comments here are that they think the academic level is better than other schools, but some of the tasks may be boring.

Since we live in a country with poor academics overall, I am nervous to have my child attend a more relaxed school. At the same time I know small kids learn a lot by doing and being outdoors and happiness is very important of course! My son is a naturally curious kid (like most!) who has done well with with the routine at his traditional PreK, but at the moment is very bored copying out sentences.

Submitted February 17, 2025 at 09:29AM by mamaleti https://ift.tt/k8pjmNl