Preschool and afterschool programs

[fortmyersbride]

DS is 4 and is currently in Montessori school from 8:30a to 11:30a M-F. He also attends an afterschool program on Weds afternoons. I originally signed him up for this program when I was still working out of town and had a hard time finding a Weds sitter. Now we have a nanny and I no longer work out of town, but DS loves the program. It goes until 5:30pm but he can be picked up any time after 2pm (not before 2 so as not to disturb nap). The afternoon consists of Spanish class, science "class" (an experiment of the day), and outdoor play.

DS loves the afterschool program. Frankly I think he likes it more than his regular class. A spot just opened up on a second afternoon and DH wants to put DS in it. DS says he wants to go two afternoons, but doesn't this seem like a lot of school for a 4 yr old? Part of this may be me selfishly wanting more time with him on my afternoons off. I also worry though that DH and I can be so education-focused that we may overload DS with educational activities, and this might be a prime example of us doing so. Would you enroll your kid for a second afternoon?

[cjeanette]

If he loves it I would.

[Deleted]

If he likes it why not? Lots of kids are in daycare from 7am to 6pm every day. I don't think he'll be overwhelmed with what you have now.

[atouchofklasse]

I'd go for it

[Deleted]

Dd will do this at age three next year. I teach at the school,and she has to stay late anyway.mso she might as well do some of the fun activities instead of after care every day.

[mommylikestattoos]

Def not too much, especially if he enjoys it!

[fortmyersbride]

Thanks for the feedback. I think we'll go for it and just plan to pick him up early or drop back to one day a week if he seems overwhelmed.

[Deleted]

Yes, if he loves it & can afford it. My DD2 went full days to Pre-k (Montessori too) last year at 4 mainly because I hated doing the 8am drop off, 11:30 pick up & a 3pm pick up (especially in snowy Colorado winters with another toddler). I was a SAHM but I do think it benefitted her.

[w2w]

Yep, as long as he likes it.

[livinitup]

Absolutely. You are lucky to find such a great option.