- There are thousands of institutions labeled "preschool," and not all of them are worthy of the title. Many places providing only basic-needs care and little in the way of education are advertised as being a "learning center," fooling parents looking for more for their children than a babysitter. Another common misconception is that all preschools focus on academics. Most of them, in reality, are not centered on the three "R"s as children under the age of 5 are not usually ready for these, but instead on social, cooperative and manipulative educational activities.
- Parents looking for a preschool that provides a wonderful educational opportunity for their children need to be inquisitive. It is essential that they spend time at the facility under their consideration. The parents should meet with the facilitator and ask questions about the capacity of the school, its accreditations, the adult-to-child ratio and about the training and educational background of the teachers. It is also important to not only tour the facility, but to spend time in the classrooms observing the interactions of the children with the teachers and each other, as well as noting the activities occurring. Speaking with parents of already-enrolled children will help you access a preschool, as well. Information on early-childhood program standards can be found from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (see Resources below).
- Seek out a preschool with a wide range of educational activities and a balance between active and passive activities. Check with administrators and teachers as to how lesson plans and schedules are created, and ask them to share written plans with you. Look for small, muscle-manipulative activities, such as working with crayons, clay, dominoes and other small objects, as well as large muscle exercises like large ball throwing and simple gymnastic moves. Physical education is an extremely important part of preschool. Aside from these activities, watch for imaginative activities, such as playing with puppets and pretending games along with quiet times in which the children listen to a teacher reading or singing stories. Spend the day at a facility you are actively considering to get a good overview of it.
- Preschools come in many different forms. Among them, you will find the Montessori technique of self-guided learning in a stimulating environment, some center on religious nurturing of the children, many are geared to children identified with possible learning impediments and others offer an emphasis on art, music or physical education. Choose the environment that suits your child's learning style and interest and supports your particular values. You may have to 'try out" several before finding the one most compatible with your family.
- Preschools can have wonderful benefits for children and their families. A reputable facility will help foster independence, self-sufficiency and provide a stimulating learning experience for their young charges. Children who go preschool are usually better prepared for the rigors of kindergarten than their stay-at-home peers. Parents benefit, as well, by the assurance that their children are being cared for and educated while they work.
