Our DC was at private, but we moved him to public in 2nd, when we moved to the area. He was very reluctant to join in groups, and was definitely an observer. We fretted because there were a 100 kids at grade level, and I watched him like a hawk because I was afraid he'd get lost. But, he made friends immediately. It probably helped that the school community is fantastic, and we all enjoyed being welcomed by it.

You're right that the biggest difference btwn private and public is hand holding. It was clear from the beginning, but he seemed to relish the independence. And, still does.

If you are confident about your choice, kids pick that up and trust in your choice for them. GL.

Anonymous wrote:This describes my oldest child, and because we were concerned that she would get lost in the mix (good kid, shy, behaves well in class) we decided to send her to private. She is now in 5th grade, and has truly blossomed. Her self confidence has grown, and we can no longer call her shy. I think the school we picked was the right choice for her. For high school we will be able to pick from many different choices - public, private, large or small, single-sex or co-ed. I feel these elementary years have helped build a solid foundation for her.

I could have written this except on behalf of my son. We decided on private when he was entering school for these same reasons (quiet, well-behaved, attentive and smart), afraid he would be overlooked in the large public school classes. Now in 6th, he is an incredibly self-confident and comfortable person wyho feels at home in many situations and is very capable. We truly credit the private school he attends with hisn growth into who he is today. I could never have imagined 7-8 years ago that he would be such a confident and well-spoken middle schooler.