So far, when talking about preparing and saving for education funds, most parents immediately imagine skyrocketing enrollment fees or monthly tuition. However, there is one cost item that often flies under the radar: school readiness test fees.
The truth is, before a child officially puts on their uniform, there is a series of evaluation processes that can be quite costly. This ranges from consultations with child psychologists and independence tests to potential therapy if developmental hurdles are found. To avoid any financial shocks, let’s break down the strategy and how to prepare the funds using the Jago application, because Every Goal Can Have Its Own Pocket.
Why Is a School Readiness Test Important?
A school readiness test is not just a formality. It is a step to ensure a child is cognitively, motorically, socially, and emotionally ready. Forcing a child into school without proper readiness increases the risk of stress or learning difficulties.
Sometimes, test results indicate that a child needs specialized support, such as:
- Speech Therapy: For communication barriers.
- Occupational Therapy: To train focus and fine motor skills.
- Sensory Integration: For children with specific sensory sensitivities.
Cost Simulation: How Much Should You Prepare?
Here is a rough estimation of costs (average in major cities) to give you an idea:
|
Service Type |
Estimated Cost |
Frequency |
|
Consultation & Readiness Test (Psychologist) |
Rp800,000 - Rp1,500,000 |
One-time |
|
Therapy Session (if required) |
Rp300,000 - Rp600,000 |
Per Session |
|
Developmental Screening |
Rp500,000 - Rp1,000,000 |
One-time |
Note: If a child requires routine therapy (e.g., once a week), you might need an additional Rp1.2 - Rp2.4 million per month during the observation period.
Practical Saving Strategies with the Jago/Jago Syariah Pockets
Managing these funds doesn't have to be a headache. With the Jago application, you can separate these funds so they aren't accidentally used for daily groceries or other needs. In the Jago application, every need and goal can have its own Pocket. Here are the saving options you can consider:
1. Use a personal Saving Pocket
If you are the type of parent who takes full charge of the family finances, create one dedicated Saving Pocket in the Jago application.
- Target: Rp5,000,000 (Assumption: test fees + 2 months of therapy reserve).
- Method: Activate the automatic budgeting feature. Set aside Rp200,000 - Rp400,000 per month starting from when the child is 2 years old. By the time they hit 5-6, the funds are ready!
2. Use a Shared Pocket for couple collaboration
For couples who want to prepare for their child's future together, you can create a Shared Pocket.
- How: Create a Pocket, then invite your spouse.
- Benefit: Both husband and wife can monitor the balance and contribute to the same Pocket. No more drama about "where did the money go?"
Tips for Managing Your School Readiness Budget
- Start Early: Don't wait until the child is 6 to visit a psychologist. Start saving when they are toddlers.
- Check Office Benefits/Insurance: Some insurance policies or corporate benefits cover child psychologist fees. Use your savings only for the remaining balance.
- Separate Your Accounts: Do not mix school readiness funds with monthly grocery funds. In the Jago application, you can have many Pockets with different account numbers for every goal.
FAQ About School Readiness Test
1. When should a child take a school readiness test?
Ideally, 6 months to 1 year before school registration begins (around age 5-6).
2. Is it mandatory for all children to see a psychologist before elementary school?
It is not mandatory, but highly recommended if you have doubts about your child's emotional maturity or if the target school requires a psychologist's observation.
3. What if the test results show the child is not ready?
Psychologists usually provide recommendations, such as delaying school entry for a year or attending support therapy to catch up.
4. Why is using the Jago/Jago Syariah Pockets effective for preparing the funds?
Because you can discipline yourself to organize and separate budgets into their respective Pockets according to your goals. This way, funds won't get mixed up, and you can track your saving progress easily.
