> My only point was that as they grow older, our ability to mold them to our wishes and preferences diminishes
>
>Mike, the greatest intellectual development in a person's life occurs between the ages of 2.5 and 5. Take a look at the teachings and writings of Maria Montessori (whom I read LONG before I ever wanted to become a parent). There's substantial evidence that you can raise a kid to be indifferent towards the aspects of many (but not all) teenage "rebellions"

Provide proof please. :o)

Ha ha ha! Sorry, couldn't resist. :o)

I actually attended a Montessori school for a time. I'm fully aware of their practices. Children who study at Montessori schools do very well in math and sciences but really excel in social development over publicly educated children according to studies. However, it should be noted, that unless more recent studies are available, the ones I read were really too small to be of any real consequence. There were no studies when I was in school - my mom was part of the whole new age stuff before it was new age (70s) so I was the beneficiary of that. :o)

My experience: small classrooms (good), friendly atmosphere and very good promoting of peaceful atmosphere (good), ability for children to decide their own games and what they wish to do for social growth (sometimes bad). It does focus on the whole child (good). They teach all children to be aware of the needs of the earth, animals, and other humans not just locally but globally (good).

My experience was that it was very similar to the practices and beliefs of the Baha'i philosphy. Also, they tend to produce what was once referred to as hippies. So if you want to teach Katy to be a member of Greenpeace or a hippie, go for it. :o)

Seriously, I would put the education and growth of a Montessori school far above public schools. However, my preference for my daughter was a private elementary school (the Montessori school in my town was too far away for me and the hours were impossible). She attened private schools until the 5th grade. Small class sizes and better curriculum. In the 4th grade she tested at the 9th grade reading and math level. In the 5th grade I moved her to a public school (for the resources they have) and it was a catch-22 (Of course).