How to Choose a Preschool Program

Choosing a preschool program for your child can be stressful. I have been teaching kindergarten for ten years and I know what makes for a good preschool environment. As a parent I have sent both my sons to great preschools and have observed the programs. Every parent wants their child to be happy and have a good education at the same time. There is a lot to consider when looking for a preschool program. More than anything, preschool is preparation for kindergarten so you should look ahead to what kind of kindergarten your child will be attending. If they are going to enter an "academic" kindergarten then you might not want to send them to a "developmental" preschool and vice versa. Finding a preschool program that is a good match for you and your child can be less stressful when you follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Compile a list of preschool programs in your area. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find a good preschool program. Ask your friends, neighbors or co-workers where their children go and what kind of experiences they have had.

2. Know what you can afford and how long you want your child to be there each day. By knowing how much money you can spend on a preschool program or that you just want a break a couple of days a week, you may be able to significantly shorten your list.

3. Visit the school's classrooms and playground. Most schools will give you a tour if you call ahead. If they are reluctant to do so, that should be an indication that you do not want your child to go there.

4. Observe the classroom for 20 to 30 minutes and know what to look for. Stand or sit quietly away from the children. Just watch, do not ask the teacher questions or talk to the children. Observe how much of the activity is teacher-directed and see if the children have free time. Look for organization and structure. Watch how the teacher interacts with the children. Is the teacher patient, positive and nurturing? Ask yourself if your child would fit in and have fun in this setting.

5. Ask yourself these important questions. Are the classrooms clean and orderly? Is the playground safe? What is the teacher to child ratio? What is the teaching philosophy and is it in line with your parenting style? If you like what you see then you can feel good about your choice and can look forward to the first day of preschool.

Tips & Warnings

• If you see things that make you uncomfortable in any way, keep looking. There are many places from which to choose and you will find one that is a good fit for you and your child.

Resources

• National Association for the Education of Young Children

[nonkometfan]

on 8/15/2008 Watch out for Calico Corners they will call you every day