Though not a requirement by law, the benefits of preschool are hardly disputable. A child care center gives your child a good start by helping him to prepare for kindergarten. Also, children who've gone through preschool have a higher chance of completing high school and scoring higher on tests.
However, the cost of preschool, even for one child, is beyond the reach of many families. When you have multiple children, the situation is significantly worse. In such circumstances, what options do you have?
Discounts for Multiple Siblings
Some schools offer discounts for multiple siblings. Find out if your preschool has such an offer. Also explore other discount options. In some schools, you'll get a discount for paying your fees upfront or for adopting a specific payment plan.
Home-Based Schools
Consider home-based preschools. These are schools owned by individuals and often run from their homes. They provide quality service at an affordable rate. They also generally have fewer children.
Government Subsidies
You may also have the option of government subsidies. These are normally given to low income families. The availability and access criteria vary from state to state.
For example, in California you can have a free preschool year if your child was born in September, October or November. In Georgia, you have preschool subsidy accessible through lottery.
The subsidies range from free preschool to a stipend to cover expenses. Inquire from your state's department of education if they have any such program.
Scholarships
Explore scholarships options. These are offered through partnering schools. You'll be surprised to find that even exclusive private schools may have such provisions.
Some private schools will offer scholarship based on the parent's income.
Cooperative Schools
Here, parents pool together to hire a few teachers. Parents are deeply involved in the daily running of the school.
They participate in school activities by providing services such as monitoring children, cleaning classrooms, carrying out some administrative tasks and even teaching.
This helps to cut down on expenses. You can also benefit from employee discounts if you opt to take a job at the school.
Loan
Finally, you have the option of taking a loan, especially if your child will be going to a public school later on.
Funding your children's child care center remains costly but it is not all doom. There are options you can explore. Getting a subsidy or a scholarship for even one child will go a long way in making preschool affordable for the other siblings.
