How to Choose a Preschool for your Child

When choosing a preschool for your child, there can seem to be an infinite number of considerations you should take into account. There are basic concerns, such as location, class size and nutrition options, and then there are more in depth considerations such as teaching philosophies, curriculums, and overall quality of education. Here are a few things you should really consider when choosing a preschool for your child:

Quality of Teaching: Teachers must be adequately licensed and trained. This includes a degree or related degree in Early Childhood/Development, as well as proper training in the preschool’s specific philosophy. Licensing varies by state, and should be met and up to date. Take note of if and how the teacher’s interact with the children and how the staff and personnel are evaluated.

Classroom Environment: Evaluate how the classroom is set up. Is it possible for the teacher to see the students at all times? How is the quality and durability of the toys and materials? There should be windows present and proper lighting.

Evaluation of children’s Performance: Ask how children are assessed. Are evaluations achievement based (meeting assessment standards) or progress based (growth over time), and how does that style fit your preferences?

Student/Teacher Interaction: Be sure to ask what the average student-teacher ratio is for the class. Licensing requirements in Michigan dictates a minimum ratio based on the children’s ages (from 1:6  to 1:8 for preschoolers). A preschool classrooms may range from having 12-26 children per class. Consider what classroom size will most benefit your child.

Parent teacher communication: Communication between parents and teachers is vital to a child’s success at school. Most preschools have parent-teacher conferences 2-3 times per year, as well as other means of communicating with parents including an online system as well as other parent involvement opportunities. It is important to find out how frequently teachers and parents communicate formally and how open the preschool is to additional parent involvement.

Physical Activity:  Physical activity is not only important for your child’s sensory and motor development, but also gives children the opportunity to explore and engage in imaginative play. Finding out how children engage in gross motor play during the day is important.

Outside Time: It is also important for children to spend time playing outside, exposure to sun, fresh air, group play, exploring the outdoors, and simply interacting with nature. Ask how much time children spend outside and checkout the preschool outdoor space.

Nutrition/Health: If the preschool will be providing snacks and meals for your child, ask what types food they offer to the children. Do they offer fresh fruits and vegetables or are they from a can? Are other foods cooked daily, processed, organic? These are important questions regarding nutrition. In terms of health, parents should ask about how allergies are managed. Do the other students in the class have the proper immunizations?

Time Flexibility: There are half and full-day preschools and preschools that provide pre and post care. It is important to think about your child’s developmental needs when considering his/her preschool schedule. Even though a preschool program that provides care from 6am to 6pm may seem ideal for your schedule, this may not be ideal for your child’s developmental needs. Young children may benefit from attending a preschool, however at at preschool cannot replace valuable time spent with family and loved ones.

Reputation: Do your research and hear what other parents have to say about the preschool. Consider the complaints and praises parents have given from their experience. Do these opinions match what your impressions were on your visit? Try to get a true indication of the type of overall experience you and your child will have at the preschool by speaking with other parents. You may learn more about the program by requesting parental references from the director of the program.

Philosophy/Curriculum: Preschool philosophies vary. Areas typically addressed include play-based methods, social/emotional development, art and language, as well as academics including reading, writing and math.

Choosing the preschool that will best fit your child and family needs is important. So take your time and visit a number of preschools before making a decision.