ICMHS Blogs

"# Finding the Right School for Your Child\r\n\r\nThe search for the right school for your child can feel overwhelming. There are so many options, and then the deadlines come rushing in. But if you pause, plan a little ahead, and focus on what really matters to you and your child, the process can actually be fruitful—and even enjoyable. Here’s a simple guide to help you find the school where your child will feel at home and grow:\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Begin Early\r\n\r\nStart your planning at least six months before admissions begin. You’ll have enough time to explore peacefully. Visit schools, attend orientations, gather documents, and schedule school visits without rushing. Plan a full-day leave if you can. It allows you to stay present and understand what each school is really offering.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Reflect: What Do You Want in a School?\r\n\r\nBefore diving into brochures and online reviews, take a moment to reflect. What are your non-negotiables? Is it a strong academic base? A nurturing environment? Sports? Arts? A certain value system?\r\n\r\n- Jot these down. \r\n- When you visit schools, use this list to quietly assess what you come across. \r\n- It helps to grade or mark schools as per your own parameters rather than the generalised ones.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Involve Both Parents\r\n\r\nIt’s really important that both parents understand the school and are part of the decision.\r\n\r\n- When parents and school are on the same page, it shows in the child’s experience. \r\n- Attend visits together, ask your questions, and decide together.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Understand the Process\r\n\r\nEvery school follows its own steps—some will have a child interaction, some may want to meet both parents, some may ask for a portfolio.\r\n\r\n- Check timelines and formats well in advance. \r\n- That way, you’ll walk into each step knowing what to expect.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Visit the School and Talk to the Team\r\n\r\nIf the school offers a tour or open house, don’t miss it.\r\n\r\n- Sometimes just walking down a corridor or interaction with a teacher tells you more than a brochure. \r\n- If possible, meet the coordinator or the head of the school.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Do a Little Homework\r\n\r\nGo through the school’s website.\r\n\r\n- Look at how they speak about students. \r\n- Explore the kind of activities they showcase.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Reviews Help, But Only a Bit\r\n\r\nOnline reviews are helpful, but take them with a pinch of salt.\r\n\r\n- Don’t get carried away by one negative comment or one glowing one. \r\n- Look for repeated patterns.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Speak to Parents You Know\r\n\r\nNo one can give a better picture of the school than a parent whose child actually studies there.\r\n\r\n- Enquire about how teachers engage, how issues are handled, and how their child feels.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Old School Vs New School?\r\n\r\n- Established schools bring structure and experience. \r\n- Newer schools might be more experimental or offer more flexibility. \r\n\r\nSee what suits your child and your family best.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Pick the Curriculum That Fits\r\n\r\nIt could be CBSE, ICSE, IB, or any other.\r\n\r\n- Try to understand the teaching style and pace of each. \r\n- Every board has strengths. \r\n- Choose what matches your child’s personality and learning rhythm—not what’s trending.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Keep a Small Portfolio (for Higher Classes)\r\n\r\nIf you’re applying for admission in higher grades, it helps to carry:\r\n\r\n- A simple folder with your child’s certificates \r\n- Artworks or interest samples \r\n\r\nThis gives the school a peek into your child's preferences and knowledge areas.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Support Your Child\r\n\r\nIf there’s an assessment or interaction, talk to your child about it.\r\n\r\n- Maybe do a small practice session. \r\n- But keep it light. What matters most is that they feel confident and safe.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Stay Sorted\r\n\r\nKeep a list of:\r\n\r\n- Schools \r\n- Timelines \r\n- Required documents \r\n\r\nAll in one place. It saves time and avoids last-minute worry.\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\n## Final Thought\r\n\r\nRemember, admissions don’t have to feel like a race. Take a breath, start early, and walk through the process calmly with clarity. Let your decision come from what feels right—for your child, your family, and your values. When that happens—it becomes a second home."