Pre-School, Daycare, Kindergarten — Ages 6 Months to 6 Years

Daycare takes children from about six months and focuses on supervised care, feeding and naps. Pre-school starts around two to three years and follows a structured early-years curriculum — Montessori, Reggio Emilia or a British EYFS framework — with measurable learning goals and a transition plan into Kindergarten 1.

Adjustment time depends mostly on age. Children of four and under usually settle within two to four weeks, while those aged five and older often need two to three months. Choosing a school with an established international community, an EAL programme and a buddy system shortens the transition considerably.

Montessori suits self-directed learners and builds independence and practical life skills well. The benefit fades if a child leaves for a conventional classroom at Kindergarten 1, so plan to continue the method for at least three years. Also verify that teachers hold AMI or AMS certification, which is not universal in Thailand.

Usually not. Expect meals at THB 10,000–20,000 a month, school bus THB 5,000–15,000 a month depending on distance, uniforms THB 5,000–15,000 a year, and field trips or activities THB 5,000–20,000 a year. Ask for the full fee schedule, not just the headline tuition.

No. Schools normally carry only basic accident cover of around THB 100,000, which is limited to incidents on campus or during school activities. Families should hold comprehensive health insurance of THB 50,000–150,000 a year that includes inpatient treatment at private Bangkok hospitals and emergency evacuation.