When choosing a school for your child, there are many factors to consider. While public school is always an option, opting for a private school may have its benefits as well. Check out these benefits of private school to help determine if a private school would be the best choice for your child and your family.

#1. Generally Smaller Schools

One benefit of private schools is that they generally have fewer students. 86% of private schools have less than 300 students. Smaller schools generally indicate a lower student to teacher ratio. This translates to more individualized attention for each student as teachers are able to devote more of their time and efforts to each child in their class. Students also benefit because often the school becomes a more close-knit community. It is more likely for teachers to get to know your student well. Therefore, a greater system of support is naturally in place for students of small, private schools than is usually possible in larger, public schools.

#2. Seamless Transition From Daycare or Preschool

With many parents receiving subsidized child care so they can continue working when their children are young, often it makes sense to choose a daycare or preschool location where the children can continue on as older students. Choosing a private school that incorporates subsidized child care program for young children gives students confidence to begin kindergarten in a location they are already used to. Sometimes, for parents eligible for subsidized child care, this option is also available during the summer vacation months so students have a smoother transition between the care they receive during the school year and during the summer. Many children feel more comfortable not having to switch between environments.

#3. Higher Test Scores

Some studies indicate that private schooling results in greater test scores for students. Average SAT scores for high school seniors in public school were 492 in reading, 501 in math and 478 in writing. Compare that to private schools where high school seniors averaged 535 in reading, 580 in math and 542 in writing. While test scores aren’t everything that matters, they are a good indication of the possible advantages of the private school curriculum. Test scores are one of the reasons why parents send their children to private schools.

#4. Increased Parent Satisfaction

In private schools, parents often have more say in their child’s education. Many private schools are religiously affiliated so parents can choose to have their children learn in an environment conducive to their cultural values, traditions and beliefs. In the 2011-2012 school year, 80% of parents with children enrolled in a religiously affiliated private school reported being “very satisfied” with their children’s education.

Every school is different. It is up to parents to decide on the school that will be best for their children. If you are choosing between private and public schools, consider aspects such as the cost of tuition, the values supported by the schools and the size of the school before making a final decision.