Your values, needs and desires are the priority when you choose a school or activity for your kids.
The Family Choice Journal is a guided reflection tool designed to help families and young people clarify their values, needs, and priorities when selecting a school or out-of-school activity.
Through a series of prompts, it encourages thoughtful decision-making about learning environments that best support a child’s growth, interests, and well-being. This resource supports families in making informed choices that align with what matters most to them.
Download the Complete Family Choice Journal
Ready to start using the Family Choice Journal to make informed decisions about your child’s education and activities? Download the journal now and take the first step towards choosing the best learning environments for your family.
How to Use the Family Choice Journal
Download the Journal by Section
Getting Started
Make a list of schools or activities that interest you. You might learn about them through friends, social media groups, or their proximity to your home. Use RESCHOOL’s DISCOVER Learning Resource to find activities in your area.
Getting Started – Spanish (Coming Soon)
Reflect
Complete the Learner Reflection and Experience Reflection sections. Invite an adult who knows the learner well to discuss these questions if it helps.
Reflect on what you or your child hope to gain from the school or activity, such as learning new skills, feeling a sense of belonging, gaining confidence, or preparing academically.
Reflect – Spanish (Coming Soon)
Prioritize
Fill out the Priorities Reflection and make notes about what you need, what would be nice to have, and what you do not need.
Use the Priorities Organizer to structure your thoughts and ensure you consider all important factors.
Prioritize – Spanish (Coming Soon)
Review
Reference the Next Steps page and the notes you made in the Family Choice Journal.
Choose schools or activities to visit. If you have questions about the process, contact the school district or one of the schools you are considering.
Review – Spanish (Coming Soon)
Choose
Based on your reflections, priorities, and reviews, make a final decision on the school or activity that best fits your needs and desires. Use the insights and notes from your Family Choice Journal to support your choice.