Finding the Right Preschool For Your Child

How do you select a preschool for your child? This isand write down your most important questions before
a very important decision, as this will be their firstyou arrive.
school experience and will impact how willing they areMake sure you meet with the director and the
to go to elementary school. In addition to your ownteachers. You'll want to see how the director runs the
unique circumstances, give some consideration to theschool, but it is the teachers who will likely have the
topics discussed here.most interaction with your child. Request a tour so you
What needs to you want the preschool staff tocan see the entire facility.
address? Should they be teaching colors and shapes?During the tour, look at both the facility and the activity
It's best to identify whether or not the preschool is ahappening in the facility. Do the children seem content?
match now or you may be disappointed. What aboutWhat sort of information is hanging on the bulletin
socialization? Do you want the staff to work on this asboard? Take notes of your impressions and be sure
well?to follow-up with any additional questions. After you
Not every family requires full time preschool. Somehave visited each of the preschools you are
parents work part-time or are students. In their case,considering, take your child to visit your favorite.
they may wish to do much of the teaching at home asIntroduce him to the director, the teachers, and the
they'll only require a few hours of daycare each day.other children. How does he like this preschool? If your
Shopping for a preschool may seem like a hugechild seems to fit in well with this environment, you've
undertaking, but it can be fun. Be sure to keep yourmade a good choice!
most important criteria in mind. Bring a notebook along