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Finding the Preschool That Fits Your Child


PreschoolersWhat is the criteria for finding the setting which is best suited to meet your preschooler's needs? It is important to determine the purpose for sending your child to preschool. You may need to have your child cared for while you and your spouse are away at work, but let's hope there is more to it than that. Maybe you are looking for an environment which takes up where the home leaves off in terms of instruction, or you may want a setting which complements what you already provide. Maybe your child needs an environment which is mostly play. Could it be that there is a need for a very structured program or something in between? Whatever you want the school to be, you need to do some shopping and selecting. These are a few basic steps in the decision making process:

  1. Talking to other parents and/or agencies for referrals
  2. Interviewing directors and/or staff members
  3. Observing several programs in operation

playA proper fit between your child and the early education experience provided can help him or her retain and enhance the natural love of learning. Finding the right environment to provide these experiences is well worth your time and effort. Following are some questions designed to reflect concern for a quality preschool environment which will help you to focus on the big picture as you go about the selection process. You may need to leave your neighborhood to find the right school.



The Staff

  1. Do teachers have degrees or training in early childhood education?
  2. Are parents welcome to observe classes?
  3. Is the staff membership consistent or is the turnover rate high?
  4. How is discipline handled? Are encouragements offered for appropriate behavior?
  5. Do teachers ask questions which encourage creative thinking?

The Program

  1. Are there opportunities for both group and independent work?
  2. Are the children encouraged to make choices within an appropriately structured framework?
  3. Are there a variety of books, toys, and games which are easily available to children?
  4. Are children having fun?
  5. Are computers available to be used in conjunction with instruction?

The Environment

  1. Is the playground fun, safe, and not crowded?
  2. Are the bathrooms and eating areas easily and safely accessible?
  3. Is the equipment sturdy, safe, and in good condition?
  4. Are rooms colorful and attractive without being over-stimulating?
  5. Are materials located within the reach of the children?