Choosing the best preschool for your child is no easy feat. After all, this is the first time they will be spending the day without their parents, and you are entrusting a teacher to develop a solid educational foundation. There are many things to take into consideration, as you only want the best for your child. To make it easier for you, here are five questions you should ask when looking at preschools.
1. Does the school have an educational philosophy?
Different preschools educate in different ways. Some teach through a regimented classroom, some teach through hands on activities, and some choose to have the parents get as involved with the curriculum as they can. Their philosophy will also give you a feeling for how open they are with the parents, which is crucial.
2. Do all of the staff have educational background?
One of the benefits of preschool is having an experienced and qualified teacher instruct your child. Having formal training will mean that the teacher will know how to specifically deal with young children, and be able to give them developmentally appropriate instruction.
3. How often do the children get a chance to play?
Finding a good preschool is crucial to help develop your child’s fine and gross motor skills. Even if it is simple activities like playing with a ball, cutting with scissors, and making crafts, these will all prepare your child for kindergarten.
4. Do the children nap?
Naps are great benefits of preschool. You should ask if the naps are at the same time per day, and ensure that they are not too long so they don’t interfere with your child getting to sleep later that night. Naps for toddlers are important so they can regenerate themselves, and so they won’t feel too overwhelmed and cranky.
5. What are the food options like?
Does your child get a snack provided by the school, and/or specific meals? Will the children be able to talk to each other while eating, and are healthy meals included? Will they eat before or after nap time, and will they have to wash their hands before the meal?
Keep these questions in mind, and you will soon find the best preschool for your little learner!
