If you need full-day, year-round care for your child, it's important to know the differences between Language Garden Montessori School and public school Transition to Kindergarten (TTK) programs. While TTK might sound good, Language Garden gives your child a far better experience and ensures they reach their full potential.

How Language Garden is Different from TTK

A big difference is that public school TTK programs are not licensed. This means they do not follow the same strict rules that licensed child care centers like Language Garden follow. Here’s why Language Garden is the better choice for your family:

• Licensed by DCYF: Language Garden holds a childcare license from the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). This means we are checked regularly to make sure we provide safe, high-quality care. TTK programs do not need this license.
• Smaller Class Sizes: At Language Garden, we have fewer children per teacher, so your child gets more attention. In TTK programs, some districts have up to 23 children per teacher, which is far higher than recommended for quality care.
• Curriculum for Preschoolers: We use a play-based curriculum that is designed to meet the developmental needs of preschool-aged children. It helps them learn through play and exploration. TTK programs do not have to follow the same standards for early childhood learning.
• Special Preschool Environment: Our classrooms are designed just for young children, with age-appropriate toys and learning materials. TTK classrooms may not be set up specifically for preschoolers.
• Trained Teachers: Language Garden teachers are specially trained in early childhood education. They know how to help children grow socially and emotionally. TTK teachers may not have the same level of specialized training.
• Safety and Background Checks: Our teachers are trained to spot signs of child abuse and report it. They must pass a background check through the DCYF, including Child Protective Services (CPS) checks. TTK programs do not have these strict safety rules.

Key Challenges of TTK Programs

There are several specific challenges with public school TTK programs that parents need to be aware of:

• No Full-Day Care Options: TTK programs offer only school-day hours, which is not enough for working families who need full-day care.
• No Year-Round Care: TTK programs do not provide child care during winter, mid-winter, spring, and summer breaks. This leaves families struggling to find alternative care during these times.
• Lack of Cultural Diversity: TTK programs often have little to no cultural diversity among their teaching staff, which may not reflect the rich, diverse backgrounds of the children in the community.
• High Teacher-to-Child Ratios: Some public school districts offering TTK have ratios as high as one teacher for every 23 children, which means less personalized attention and care for each child.
• Limits on Reaching Full Potential: TTK programs often hold children back from reaching their full potential. Many students from Language Garden Montessori enter public school one to three years ahead of their grade level, with many being admitted to Gifted Student Programs. Our focus on individualized learning and development helps children excel far beyond the basic standards set in TTK programs.

Why Language Garden is the Better Choice

At Language Garden Montessori, we offer licensed, safe, and high-quality care that helps your child reach their full potential. With our trained teachers, specialized preschool environment, and full-day, year-round care (8 AM to 6 PM), we are committed to providing the best possible experience for your child.

Choosing Language Garden means choosing a nurturing, culturally responsive, and developmentally appropriate environment where your child can thrive and excel.

For more detailed information on the Transition to Kindergarten (TTK) program and its impact, visit Kids Company’s blog.