Finding the perfect preschool for your child is both exciting and daunting. It’s an important decision and one that should be carefully thought out. You’ll want to make sure that you’re completely comfortable with the center and staff and the environment your child will be playing and learning in.
To help you make this big decision, we’ve put together a list of questions to ask yourself before you visit as well as things to ask and look for while you are visiting.
Before You Visit
Here are some things to ask yourself before you visit a potential preschool so you know what you’re a looking for:
- Where is the ideal location for you? Close to work or home or somewhere in between?
- Are there any specific needs your child has that will need to be accommodated?
- Will your child be full-time or part-time?
- Is there a particular educational philosophy that you’re looking for?
- What is your budget?
While You are There
Now that you’ve asked yourself the above questions it’s time to actually visit preschools! There will be a lot going on so here are some things to look for when you’re there:
- Quietly observe the classroom. Take a look at what the children and staff are doing. Is the activity something you think your child would enjoy? Do the kids look happy? Is there children’s art work displayed? Is the classroom clean? Can you imagine them thriving in this environment?
- Pay attention to the staff and the class size. What is the staff to kid ratio? Is the class too big for your liking? How are the staff interacting with the kids? Does the staff look happy and engaged? What is the turnover rate of the staff?
- Take a look at the outdoor play area. Does it look safe? Is it age appropriate for your child?
- Get a copy of the daily schedule. Is the day broken up into blocks or does it flow from one activity to another? Is there as much time allowed for play as for learning? Does it seem to be in line with your child’s needs?
- Ask about the curriculum. What educational philosophy do they follow? Is there a focus on reading and/or math? Are the activities and themes something you can see your child enjoying? Are children encouraged to learn independently or in groups or both?
- Ask for references. Talking to parents whose children are currently thriving at the preschool is an excellent way to make sure that you’re choosing the best place for your child.
Even More Questions You Can Ask
- How is information communicated to parents?
- What is the illness policy?
- What is the vacation policy?
- How is discipline handled?
- Are there extended hours? If yes, at what cost?
- Are staff members CPR and First Aid certified?
- What security measures are in place?
We hope these questions help you in choosing the perfect preschool for you and your child. We’d love to take you on a tour of our facilities and answer any questions you might have about Fusion and our curriculum. To schedule a tour today, please call (530) 923-7208.
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