We do not have to put him in pre-k; it is not compulsory, and we do not need it for the baby-sitting. Our entire reason for his participation is for socialization that he was not getting at home with us (my husband works 3 days per week; I work 5 - any day we are both working is covered by my mom or mother-in law). My husband is more reclusive than I, and I only have one weekend day per week off, so it's taxing for me to try to cram in all of the other activities. I do, however, frequently take him to the science museum, other museums, parks, etc. as well as set up play dates for him. The Montessori school seems like it would be a good fit, and I wouldn't be second guessing myself if it weren't for the teacher's extreme reaction.