While there is a mostly negative connotation surrounding the notion of boarding school, one must remember that preparing your child for the real world early can be a good thing--for both child and parents. Still, before making your decision, it's a good idea to explore possible pros and cons of a boarding school education, based on your child's level of readiness.Reasons why you shouldn'tA common concern for most parents is that the parent-child communication is strained or--at the very worst--severed when the child is sent away for long periods at a time. While this may have been a concern in the past, technology has evolved enough to remedy this potential problem.However, for some parents, phone calls and text messages are not enough to replace actual, face-to-face contact with their child. In cases where constant communication is a must, it might be best to think twice before sending your child to boarding school. This may include cases where your child has an eating disorder, is suffering from depression, or has shown strong resistance to accepting new people, rules or ideas.Reasons why you shouldThe best reason to send your child to boarding school is to foster independence. If he is ready for it, boarding school may be the training ground he needs for college, as well as for the real world after that. Studies have shown that students from boarding school tend to be highly self-motivated, disciplined, and well-mannered. Aside from the standard academics, boarding school teaches its students to govern themselves effectively, leading to a strong sense of self. Your child may also develop key qualities needed to survive after graduation, such as confidence and social skills.If your child seems prepared to handle being away from home for long periods of time, then you may consider sending him to boarding school.Before you decideHowever, before making your final decision, the best person to ask if he could be sent to boarding school would be your child. Encourage him to voice his feelings regarding going to boarding school, as well as be open to any questions or concerns that he might have.