Thread: Arthur's Future

Our son has just turned two, so, understandably, we are thinking about his future.

We are looking for a playschool/ kindergarden that provides a quality fun environment, and where Arthur can learn a thing or two, but mostly enjoy himself and socialise with other children.

We have looked at numerous places recommended by people we know,or by looking on the web, but I and my wife feel that there is always something missing when we have visited these places to take a closer look.


Here are a few examples:

• The 'child centred learning' playschool programme was, suprise suprise, rote based. We sat in for 20 min. on a class teaching colours and shapes. Teacher held shape up, said name, student repeated - no games, no fun, just mind numbing boredom for the kids, and us!
• The food was just awful. We tried some.
• No play area, despite the website saying there was one.
• Garden play area the size of a stamp, despite looking much, much bigger on the website. It was not safe either. Lots of sharp edges and no springy flooring, just concrete with a thin mat covering.
• Hidden costs - swimming extra, music extra etc etc. which were not disclosed in the school brochure.

We would be happy to hear about all English speaking places, or Thai playschools/ kindergardens where English classes are also part of the child's week.

I know it's not a perfect world, and you get what you pay for. We don't have mega bucks, so we know finding a good place for our son will not be easy.

But your advice and any recommendations would be very very welcome. If you work in such a place, or you know of a kindergarden or play school that provides a great environment for toddlers, please respond here or pm as you wish.

We live in On Nut, nearish to the BTS, so most reasonable travel is not a problem.

Thanks for reading this, and thanks for any help or advice you can offer.

The only reason for sending your 2 year old to be raised by strangers is so your wife can work. Any delusions about the "quality" of a preschool program for 2 year olds need to be tempered by reality. The reality is that MOM is the best teacher for a 2 yr old. If work for MOM is not absolutely necessary - reconsider your basic issue. Just my opinion.

Agree with J. L.

Part of why I chose a woman from a lower social class is because I believe a mother's prime duty is to see to the children. I don't want a wife with a career that makes demands on her ability to provide the core nurturing in the family. Obviously the man has certain duties in this area as well. I guess I'm conservative in this respect.

I see your point now Johnh. Certainly a bit of socialization wouldn't hurt young Arthur. Two seems rather young to me for this. Perhaps three or four is more suitable, but that is entirely your decision.

You couldn't prevent your kids from being socialized - if you wanted to, especially in Thailand. I have never been a big fan of these kinds of places. You will find your kid coming home with some nasty behaviors that they learn from other kids. Screeching for attention, hitting and biting, and throwing fits are but a few things that kids learn from their peers. Aren't there any other moms with kids in the neighborhood?

Originally Posted by Hamster

I see your point now Johnh. Certainly a bit of socialization wouldn't hurt young Arthur. Two seems rather young to me for this. Perhaps three or four is more suitable, but that is entirely your decision.

Well, Arthur is who he is and is becoming.

He isn't quiet, docile, told to be quiet all the time, doted on by his Mum or me, or discouraged in anyway from being himself.

He's inquisitive, bright, funny, and a cheeky monkey; I know he is not the only two year old like this, but that's why we think he needs that bit extra.

Originally Posted by kingdomcome

Our son is 3. His socializing with other kids comes at the playgrounds that we frequent.

Playgrounds are indeed great places to socialise, and he does play with his cousin and some friends a few times a fortnight here at home, in the park or baby gym.

But from your personal experience, do you know of a decent playschool we could take a look at?

How much are the expensive places?

at onnut there ia very good thai alternative school at about suk soi 93 9ish
the kids there are very happy and i would have put my daughter there if we hadnt lived so far away, the kids learn by doing etc.
i'll try and find you a link

siam sarm drai
was the name ask yer missus to look it up

I've often thought if I ever had children in Bangkok of that age I'd send them to the Waldorf school. It's run by a Japanese guy, who I met actually. Creative environment, holistic philosophy, emphasis on interacting with nature. Can't remember exactly where it is now. Sukhumvit somewhere. Anyway, it's called Baan Rak.