You want the best for your child which includes providing them with the best education. And to ensure that, you need to start from an early age which means finding them the best preschool. There is a lot of information available online, but finding the right preschool for your child will be more challenging. Here are a few tips that will help you do the same:
Referrals
One of the best ways for you to ensure that you find a high-quality preschool is to get referrals from your close friends or your pediatrician. You can ask them about the curriculum, environment, reputation, and teaching staff. It will also help you narrow down your search for preschool programs.
First impression
As a parent, you have the right intuition and you should learn to trust it. As you walk inside the preschool, check if the school feels welcome, inviting, bright, and clean.
Accreditation programs
There are a lot of preschools that participate in accreditation programs. Even though this is not a requirement, preschool accreditation will provide you with the much-needed assurance.
Teachers’ qualifications
Talk to the teachers about their qualifications, their online training and how they interact with the children. You have to take into account the way they guide and discipline children while making your decision.
Curriculum
Every preschool will have a different curriculum and philosophy. For your child, you want a curriculum offering hands-on learning, rich content, and developmentally-appropriate play. The curriculum should focus on academics as well as fostering emotional and social development. They should make your child engage actively in learning.
Outdoor space
In the past few years, schools have been focusing more on academics and less on outdoor play. It started with elementary schools and has trickled down to preschools. However, outdoor play is still important for your children’s needs. Make sure that the preschool offers outdoor play as well as exposure to nature.
Community
You and your kid will be spending a lot of time at the preschool. It is important that this is the place of community where children, teachers, and parents support each other. Check if they offer any programs or events for fostering close relationships.
Fine print
Before you enroll your child in a preschool, make sure to read the handbook. This will provide you information about the registration fees, tuition rates, school’s hours, vacation and illness policies.
The bottom line is that when it comes to quality childcare, you need to ask questions and trust your gut. You will have to stay involved with the preschool, so make sure that you choose the right one. If you have any concerns, you can talk to the preschool director or your child’s teacher.