Finding the Best Preschool for Your Child

publication date: Aug 7, 2008

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author/source: Roswell Beacon

Choosing the right preschool for your child may be one of the most complicated decisions you have to make as a parent. An estimated five million children are in preschool programs, and the number is growing. According to the Families and Work Institute, children benefit from quality programs with competent staff and good teacher-to-student ratios.

If you’re looking for a preschool for your child, here are some important things to consider as you make your decision.

Do your research. Ask your friends, go online and call or visit your top choices in person. As you research it is important to remember that there is a significant difference between preschools and day care facilities.

You want your child to be in a stimulating, nurturing and loving environment.

Think about some of the basic factors. These include distance from home, type of program, size, etc.

Prepare your questions and call your top preschools. Important questions to ask are: Are you accredited? What is the teacher/student ratio? Tell me about your curriculum. What are you doing to prepare my child for kindergarten?

Go for a tour. When touring the facility, consider the following:

Reputation – Top preschools have a warm, friendly, welcoming atmosphere and are known for their nurturing environment. Stop by at drop off or pickup time and watch the parents, children and teacher interactions. Smiling, friendly faces should be visible. Feel free to ask parents what they think about the school. Stop in unannounced. Good preschools welcome visitors and will invite you in to see the school. As noted above, look for preschools that are accredited.

Safe, Clean Environment – A good preschool is safe and clean. The building should be bright and cheery and the floors, windows and walls should be clean. Hazardous substances should be in locked cabinets. The school should have a security system, so strangers can’t just walk in off the street. Ask about all emergency procedures, as these should be firmly in place.

Strong Curriculum – The best preschools have daily schedules and a stimulating curriculum that include time for group and individual activities. Preschoolers are NOT ready for a rigorous academic program. The school should have a wide range of age-appropriate toys and activities that support and engage your child’s individuality and imagination.

“Children should be encouraged to explore a broad-range of learning opportunities including creative art, math, dramatic play, science, music and computers; to ask questions and to take time making friends and socializing,” said Susan Masten, owner of The Goddard School located at Johns Creek/Suwanee.

Qualified, loving staff – A loving staff is of the utmost importance. Preschool teachers should have at least two years of college, CPR training, and on-going, continuing education classes. Watch to see how the staff interacts with the children. Are the class ratios low enough to give your child the attention they deserve? Teachers should be responsible, organized and passionate about the children and the school.

“In addition, teachers should have an open line of communication with parents,” said Indi Wassan, owner of The Goddard Schools located in East Roswell and Norcross. “A daily activity report and bi-annual progress reports encourage on-going communication with parent and teacher as well as parent and child.”

Bring your child – See how well your child interacts with the teachers, students and the classroom in general.

Trust your instincts. Once you decide on your school, stay involved. Communicate with your child’s teacher and establish a good relationship with the Director who sets the guidelines and runs the program. You may need to seek advice on issues concerning your child, and having a good relationship in advance can only benefit your child.