So, what are the key factors when choosing a kindergarten in Thao Dien? This article will guide parents in fully evaluating essential elements, such as curriculum, learning environment, teachers, and facilities, helping you make the most suitable decision for your child’s early development.

Criteria for Choosing a Kindergarten in Thao Dien for Your Child

1. Educational Program and Teaching Philosophy

A high-quality curriculum is the key to unlocking a child’s full potential

The curriculum is a core factor to consider when choosing a kindergarten in Thao Dien. Many schools adopt a blended approach that combines the Montessori method with international or bilingual programs, helping children develop language, thinking skills, and life skills in a well-rounded way.

A well-structured, up-to-date curriculum that aligns with modern educational trends will provide a solid foundation for a child’s holistic growth and development from the earliest years.

See more: International and Bilingual Programs at IMA Montessori

2. Language of instruction and multilingual support

In Thao Dien, bilingual and international teaching programs are widely offered, reflecting the real needs of the multicultural community living in the area.

Most kindergartens now use both English and Vietnamese in teaching, allowing children to develop language skills naturally and flexibly. In international programs, English is usually the primary language of instruction, while Vietnamese is maintained to preserve cultural identity and support multilingual communication skills.

3. Teachers and Staff

The teacher team is a top concern for many parents

The quality of the teaching team directly affects a child’s learning experience and overall development. Parents should pay attention to teachers’ professional qualifications, early childhood teaching experience, and their ability to connect and accompany children throughout their learning journey:

•  Teachers should have in-depth knowledge of the school’s chosen educational approach (especially if it is Montessori or Reggio Emilia), be formally trained, and show genuine care and understanding for children.
• They should demonstrate flexible communication skills along with cultural respect and sensitivity in all interactions with children and parents from diverse backgrounds.
• A positive, patient attitude is also essential for building trust between teachers and children.

See also: The role of teachers in a Montessori Classroom

4. Facilities and outstanding amenities

When visiting a kindergarten, the first impression often comes from the environment: Is the classroom bright? Is the playground spacious enough? These seemingly simple details reflect the school’s level of investment in children’s daily learning and play experiences.

• Classrooms and playgrounds should be scientifically designed, well-ventilated, clean, and make the most of natural light
• Learning materials should be fully equipped and age-appropriate
• Green areas, flower gardens, or natural spaces should be available to help children connect with nature and learn about life
• Toilets and canteen areas should always be kept clean and well-maintained

5. Nutrition plans and diverse menus (suitable for various cultures)

Meals must be nutritious, diverse, and well-balanced

At the kindergarten age, nutrition plays a vital role in supporting children’s physical growth, brain development, and learning capacity. Therefore, the school’s diet is an important factor for parents to consider when selecting a suitable learning environment for their child.

A balanced and varied menu, designed according to the nutritional needs of each age group, ensures children have enough energy to learn, play, and grow healthily every day.

See more: Nutrition guidelines from the American Dietetic Association

6. School culture and student diversity

A multicultural learning environment is one of the key criteria when choosing a kindergarten in Thao Dien. Children develop social skills, adaptability, and cooperation through exposure to different cultures via activities such as international festivals and themed events. This fosters open-mindedness and empathy from an early age.

7. Connection between school and parents (especially important for expat families)

Parents play a crucial role in the kindergarten ecosystem, especially in international areas like Thao Dien. A strong connection between the school and parents helps monitor the child’s development and build family trust.

Many modern kindergartens use tools like mobile apps, email, or digital journals to provide daily updates on children’s learning. In addition, regular parent-teacher meetings, educational workshops, and bilingual communication channels help strengthen effective cooperation between families and schools.

8. Tuition fees and additional charges when choosing a kindergarten in Thao Dien

Average tuition by school type

When exploring tuition fees at kindergartens in Thao Dien, many parents face difficulties due to a lack of transparency about costs and financial aid policies. Information on discounts or sibling support is often limited.

Furthermore, tuition in this area tends to be higher than the Ho Chi Minh City average because of specialized programs and services. Parents should carefully assess their budget and clarify additional fees, payment terms, and refund policies before making a decision.

Other fees to note

Aside from tuition fees, parents should be aware of additional charges that may arise during study, including:

• Admission fee: usually a one-time, non-refundable payment upon enrollment
• Facilities fee: for maintaining and upgrading equipment and learning spaces
• Extracurricular activity fee: for field trips, excursions, or special classes
• Uniforms, books, learning materials, and meal fees: sometimes not included in the main tuition and charged separately

Tips for finding and choosing a kindergarten in Thao Dien effectively

To choose the right kindergarten, parents should clearly define their family’s needs and budget, then research and shortlist potential schools. Visiting campuses in person, asking detailed questions to the admissions team and teachers will help assess suitability.

It’s also helpful to seek feedback from the parent community, especially expat parent groups, and to consider the child’s adaptability while preparing them emotionally for the new environment. This approach helps parents make a confident and well-informed decision.

See more: Why more parents are choosing bilingual kindergartens for their children

IMA Montessori kindergarten – Where all the “golden” criteria for choosing a school come together

IMA Montessori kindergarten offers a modern learning environment

Located in Thao Dien, IMA Montessori kindergarten delivers an educational program tailored to each stage of a child’s development, honoring individual differences and unique personalities. The school is dedicated to nurturing happy, confident, independent, caring children who continuously progress in their learning while maximizing their potential.

With the dedication of experienced educators, IMA creates a loving learning environment where children are encouraged to explore the world around them and confidently master their own “little world.”

See more: Bilingual Montessori kindergarten

Holistic development through internationally recognized educational methods

Nurturing holistic development in an international learning environment

According to UNICEF research, around 90% of a child’s brain develops before the age of five, and experiences during this critical period directly influence their learning ability, behavior, and mental health later in life.

Recognizing the importance of this “golden phase,” IMA Montessori Thao Dien has designed an integrated curriculum that combines the Montessori method, the Oxford International Curriculum (OIC), and Floppy’s Phonics. This approach supports children’s balanced growth physically, intellectually, and emotionally within a flexible bilingual setting.

A curriculum that fosters independent thinking from an early age

Based on the Montessori philosophy, the curriculum revolves around five key areas: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics, and Culture. Activities are tailored by age group to support children’s holistic development – physically, intellectually, and emotionally.

• Toddler (18 months – 2.5 years): Focuses on developing independence, sensory exploration, and early familiarity with language and numbers through Montessori materials in a warm bilingual environment.
• Casa (2.5 – 5.5 years): Expands logical thinking and language skills with options for bilingual or full English immersion, while nurturing self-discipline and creativity through experiential learning activities.

Evaluation of the internationally certified teaching team at IMA

Experienced, Caring, and Understanding teachers

At IMA Montessori, children learn alongside native-speaking teachers and Montessori educators who are professionally trained to international standards. All teachers are well-trained, deeply understand child psychology, and accompany the children with respect, patience, and love.

The diversity of expertise and cultural backgrounds within the teaching team not only ensures consistent educational quality but also helps children develop language skills, independent thinking, and adaptability in an international environment from an early age. This is one of the key factors that creates an inspiring and nurturing learning environment at IMA.

Facilities

The IMA Montessori Thao Dien campus is designed with lush greenery and close to nature, providing a fresh and relaxing learning space for children every day. Classrooms are filled with natural light and well-ventilated, ensuring optimal conditions for concentration and positive emotional development in young children.

All Montessori materials are imported from abroad, guaranteeing quality, safety, and standardization according to international criteria. The arrangement of materials in the classrooms, including proportions, spacing, and the setup of activity areas, strictly follows the Montessori philosophy, enabling children to freely choose, explore, and work independently.

A campus filled with lush greenery and open, airy spaces

Classrooms fully equipped with learning materials for children at IMA

Specialized learning areas designed according to Montessori standards

Spacious backyard area close to nature

See more: Modern, green facilities optimized for children’s learning and holistic development

Scientific nutrition program ensuring children’s health

A scientifically designed menu ensuring proper nutrition for IMA children

Children are served three meals daily: breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack, with menus thoughtfully designed according to their age groups. All meals are freshly prepared on-site by The Caterer, a provider specializing in school meals meeting international standards.

• The menu emphasizes proteins, fresh vegetables and fruits, and unsweetened dairy products such as plain yogurt and cheese, supplying healthy fats and essential nutrients for holistic development.
• Packaged or processed foods high in sugar are strictly avoided to ensure safety and promote healthy eating habits.
• The school also sends weekly menus via email and offers personalized nutrition consultations so parents can monitor and collaborate effectively in their child’s health care.

Extracurricular activities and soft skills

Children participate in outdoor extracurricular activities

When choosing a preschool, parents should prioritize environments that help children develop soft skills early. Through extracurricular activities such as play, exploration, and field trips in a “learning through play” model, children practice communication skills, develop independence, and enhance social abilities.

At IMA, children take part in music and art classes as well as real-world excursions, fostering imagination, nurturing emotions, and building confidence to express themselves within a group setting.

Affordable fees and policies at IMA

At IMA Montessori Thao Dien Preschool, children learn in a green, safe, and inspiring environment, integrating a modern international education program with a standardized Montessori method. For the 2025–2026 academic year, IMA applies the following fee structure:

2025–2026 Academic Year Fee Schedule

See more: Fee Schedule and Policies of IMA Montessori Preschool

Conclusion

With the above criteria, we hope this article has provided parents with useful suggestions for choosing a suitable and high-quality learning environment for their child. Regardless of the chosen direction, core criteria such as a safe learning environment, a comprehensive education program, modern facilities, and the dedication of teachers should always be top priorities.

IMA Montessori Preschool warmly invites parents to visit and experience firsthand the learning spaces, modern facilities, and inspiring teaching methods at our school. For detailed consultation on your child’s comprehensive international learning pathway, please visit Here or contact us at 091.846.2121 for quick and dedicated support.

SHARE