What it really costs

private Nursery SCHOOL
There’s nothing like forking over thousands of dollars for the luxury of letting your toddler chew on a plastic banana. Get stuck with an afternoon schedule, and preschool can end up as a pricey naptime.

(1) Tuition for three hours, two mornings a week. (Cost increases each year.)

(2) After-school Super Soccer Stars

(3) Two tickets to school auction

(4) Teacher gifts $15 per teacher, twice a year.

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PUBLIC KINDERGARTEN
Sure, the schooling is free—except for the money you shell out in taxes—but the Board of Ed doesn’t foot every cost. While most contributions are optional (you can give less—or none), expect to pay for the following.

(1) After-school gymnastics and dance classes

(2) Teacher’s assistant The PTA-suggested amount to cover the salary for a second adult in the classroom.

(3) Supplies such as paper, sanitizers, napkins, cups and Ziploc bags.

(4) Teacher fund Used for items such as a fan or rug for the classroom.

(5) Two tickets to school auction

(6) PTA contribution Goes toward hiring a school librarian, buying books or upgrading a community room.

(7) Teacher gifts Two teachers, two times a year ($5 limit per teacher)

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PRIVATE KINDERGARTEN
Think that second mortgage will only need to cover tuition? Prepare yourself for these additional costs.

(1) Tuition

(2) After-school swimming and cooking classes

(3) Uniforms

(4) Taxis At least once a week, in heavy traffic, this mom ditches the bus to reach child No. 2 across town.

(5) Two tickets to parents’ cocktail party

(6) Two tickets to school benefit

(7) Yearbook

(8) Group teacher gifts $20 per gift, twice a year.