As a parent, choosing the best school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. And if you’re living in Indonesia, one of the options you have is Sekolah Dasar or SD. SD is the equivalent of elementary school in other countries, where children aged 6 to 12 years old are enrolled. In this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive guide on Sekolah Dasar in English.
What is Sekolah Dasar?
Sekolah Dasar or SD is the first level of education in Indonesia. It is mandatory for all children to attend SD for six years, starting at the age of six. The main goal of SD is to provide children with a strong foundation in academic subjects, social skills, and moral values. The subjects taught in SD include mathematics, science, social studies, Indonesian language, English language, art, and physical education.
SD is usually divided into two levels: the first level or SD Kelas 1-3 (grades 1-3) and the second level or SD Kelas 4-6 (grades 4-6). Each level has its own set of goals and curriculum. In the first level, students learn basic skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic. In the second level, students learn more advanced skills and are introduced to new subjects such as science and social studies.
SD is an important stage in a child’s education because it lays the foundation for their future academic success. Children who receive a good education in SD are more likely to perform well in higher levels of education and have better job opportunities in the future.
How to Choose the Right Sekolah Dasar for Your Child
Choosing the right Sekolah Dasar for your child can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to Indonesia. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a Sekolah Dasar:
Location
Choose a Sekolah Dasar that is located near your home or workplace. This will make it easier for you to drop off and pick up your child from school. It will also save your child from a long commute, which can be tiring and stressful.
Cost
Consider the cost of tuition fees and other expenses such as uniforms, books, and transportation. Make sure that the cost is within your budget and that you can afford it for the entire duration of your child’s education.
Curriculum
Check the curriculum of the Sekolah Dasar you’re considering. Make sure that it aligns with your child’s needs and interests. If your child is interested in a particular subject such as music or sports, choose a Sekolah Dasar that offers these subjects as part of their curriculum.
Reputation
Research the reputation of the Sekolah Dasar you’re considering. Ask other parents for their opinions and read reviews online. Choose a Sekolah Dasar that has a good reputation for providing quality education and a safe and supportive environment for their students.
What to Expect in Sekolah Dasar
Here are some of the things you can expect when your child starts attending Sekolah Dasar:
Strict Rules and Regulations
SD has strict rules and regulations that students are expected to follow. This includes wearing the school uniform, arriving on time, and behaving appropriately in class. Parents are also expected to follow these rules, such as not disrupting classes or bringing food into the classroom.
Regular Homework
SD students are given regular homework to complete at home. This is to reinforce what they’ve learned in class and to help them develop good study habits. Parents are expected to supervise their children and ensure that they complete their homework on time.
Extracurricular Activities
Sekolah Dasar also offers extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and art. These activities are designed to help students develop their talents and interests and to promote teamwork and sportsmanship. Parents are encouraged to support their children in these activities and attend their performances and competitions.
Final Thoughts
Sekolah Dasar is an important stage in a child’s education. It provides them with a strong foundation in academic subjects, social skills, and moral values. Choosing the right Sekolah Dasar for your child can be a daunting task, but by considering factors such as location, cost, curriculum, and reputation, you can make an informed decision. When your child starts attending Sekolah Dasar, expect strict rules and regulations, regular homework, and extracurricular activities. With your support and encouragement, your child can have a successful and fulfilling experience in Sekolah Dasar.