Public versus private preschools – choosing between them is one of the first important decisions parents make. Although both types of facilities share the same goal – supporting a child's development and preparing them for school – they often differ in their organization, atmosphere, and daily care.
Public and private kindergarten – what is worth knowing?
At first glance it may seem that private and public kindergarten These are two completely different worlds. In reality, they have more in common – both institutions operate under the same educational regulations and implement the same core curriculum. However, their day-to-day activities differ – the organization, group sizes, atmosphere, relationships with teachers, educational offerings, and flexible approach to children.
If you want to better understand what preschool education looks like in Poland, check out the article: Is kindergarten compulsory?
Private and public kindergartens – similarities
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Teacher qualifications
Both types of institutions employ teachers with pedagogical education and qualifications in line with the requirements of the Ministry of National Education. -
Core curriculum
Each public and private kindergarten implements the core curriculum of preschool education defined by the Ministry of National Education. -
Surveillance and security
Both public and private kindergartens are subject to the supervision of the education superintendent and must comply with occupational health and safety rules and education law. -
Organization of the day
The daily schedule in kindergartens is similar: time for play, teaching, rest, meals and walks. -
Cooperation with parents
Both public and private kindergartens organize meetings, festivals and celebrations to which parents are invited.
Private and public kindergartens – differences
Although the foundation is common, in practice the differences between public and private kindergarten are sometimes significant.
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Fees and financing
In public kindergartens, parents only pay for meals and any additional hours of care. non-public kindergartens tuition fees appear – from several hundred to several thousand zlotys per month. -
Recruitment
Public preschools use point-based enrollment and zoning. You can read more about this process here: Kindergarten admission application – how to prepare it step by step? In private settings, however, the decision to enroll a child is made by the parent. After reviewing the preschool's offerings and assessing whether it meets their requirements and needs, they simply sign a contract. The condition, of course, is that there are available places in the appropriate age group. -
Staff and number of teachers
In public kindergartens, the group is typically led by two teachers taking turns: one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. private kindergartens – especially bilinguals – provides educational and educational care in the group two teachers in parallel – Polish-speaking educator and English-speaking teacher. -
Activities
The differences between private and public preschools are significant. In private preschools, children have access to numerous extracurricular activities led by specialists, such as rhythmic gymnastics, ballet, chess, judo, Zumba, and Spanish – some of which are often included in tuition. In public preschools, rhythmic gymnastics, and English are often taught by a dedicated teacher. -
Group size and atmosphere
IN public kindergartens groups usually consist of about 25 children. non-public – most often 12–18. This translates into a calmer and more intimate atmosphere, a greater sense of security, and the possibility of individualized approach to each child. For many children, especially those more sensitive or struggling with separation anxiety, this is of great importance. -
Communication with parents
Private preschools often feature individual parent-teacher conversations and ongoing exchange of information about the child's development and progress in various areas: emotional, social, cognitive, self-care, speech development, mathematical skills, and preparation for reading and writing. This information is provided to parents based on observation sheets conducted by teachers. In public preschools, contact with parents can be more formal. -
Child adaptation
IN private kindergartens The adaptation process is tailored to the individual needs of the parent and child. Parents can accompany their child during their first few days at preschool, helping the child become accustomed to their new environment. Most preschools have a preschool psychologist available to parents during this time, offering support and advice. In public preschools, children are usually left alone in a group immediately, which can be a significant challenge for some children. -
Working hours and holidays
Majority private kindergartens operates all year round, including during holidays. public kindergartens the so-called holiday duty and registration via the recruitment system apply. -
Educational profile and approach
Many non-public kindergartens has a distinct profile – for example, bilingual, musical, sports, or artistic. They often combine education with a close-knit approach to parenting – based on relationships, understanding emotions, and cooperation with family.
If you want to see examples of such facilities, take a look here: Private kindergartens Warsaw
Private or public kindergarten – how to decide?
When faced with a choice: private and public kindergarten, it's worth considering not only costs and location, but above all the needs of the future preschooler. Children vary in temperament, sensitivity, adaptability, and need for contact with adults and peers. Some thrive in a large group, while others need more peace, individual attention, and a relationship based on trust.
If you are wondering how to support your child in relationships, check out the article: How to support a child's social development?
Therefore, consideration of the topic: public and private kindergarten – differences and similarities comes down to one important question that a parent should answer before deciding on the best kindergarten for their child: in what kind of environment will my child feel safe and noticed?
If you are wondering when is the best time to start this adventure, read also the article: When should I enroll my child in kindergarten?
AUTHOR:
Emilia Domitrz
Preschool education methodologist
