The school yard is a major part of a child's world. It's the place where kids socialise, interact with friends, develop self-esteem and form their own beliefs and values. So it's no surprise many parents agonise over choosing schools.

Teacher and high school counsellor Erin Shale is the author of The Best School For Your Child. Here are her tips to make the process simpler.

Know your child's needs and interests

Many parents make the mistake of considering only their child's academic ability and interests. Personality and temperament play a big part, too. Observe your child when they're with their friends and in settings away from the home and family. This will help you assess your child more accurately. A quiet, shy child may not thrive in a highly competitive culture. Likewise a super-confident kid might benefit from a larger school environment.

Remain objective

When selecting a school for a child, often parents are influenced by their experiences and goals. It could be to maintain a family tradition, achieve a certain level of prestige or a reflection of their personal interests. But a child's needs may be very different to their parents' so make every effort to view things from the child's perspective.

Look beneath the surface

The reputation of many schools are closely connected to their academic performance. But academic results are not everything. Be careful of judging a school by its reputation. Some children may not function well in a very competitive environment. Know your child and consider their needs and desires against what the school has to offer.

Finding the ideal school

As schools can vary enormously, it pays to look at what they offer. One school might be very focused on science and community, while another may have more of an artistic bent. Attend open days and complete school tours. But to get inside information, use less obvious techniques. Attend the school sports day or musical and observe the students.

Don't decide too early

Some people begin to think about school the moment their babies are born. If you're happy to pay enrolment fees to secure a place, by all means do so. But schools can change so a few years out from high school is the preferred time frame to start your investigations.

When to cut your losses and change

Look for the warning signs. An unhappy child will be reluctant to talk about school. They might avoid it or spend time at the school sick bay. They might appear down and uninspired. It's important to know who to approach. It might be the school counsellor who could then talk to the teacher. The important thing is to address it and not let the issue go on for months and months. Remember, parents shouldn't expect a child to change as a person to fit into a school, a school should fit the child.

The Best School For Your Child by Erin Shale (Finch Publishing, $26.95).