How to Find the Right Pre-School for a Child

It is almost time for your child to take his first step into the world of education and it is your job to lead him there. Yes, your son is ready for preschool. This is a very exciting time for you and your child, but finding the right preschool can also feel like a very heavy decision. Stay focused on what you value and you will end up making the right decision for your child.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Start your search for the right preschool months ahead of time. In some cities this means starting your search a year to 18 months ahead of time, while in smaller areas you should be fine beginning your search about six to eight months ahead of the new school year.

2. Decide on practical locations for your search, such as within 20 minutes of home or on your way to work. Consider how far you are willing to drive in the winter or with other children in the car.

3. Make a list of all preschools that are within your determined locations. It is a good idea to have a small notebook that you use just for your preschool search, this will help you stay organized, as well as give you a place to take notes.

4. Compile a list of preliminary questions to ask every preschool on your list. Your list may include asking about the schools philosophy (Montessori, Waldorf or teacher directed), application process, tuition rates and payment arrangements, preschool hours and their availability of before and after daycare.

5. Call each preschool on your list and ask each of your questions. Be sure to note who you spoke with.

6. Eliminate any preschool that does not meet one of your needs or is not the environment you would like your child schooled in. You might eliminate schools if they require testing, if they are out of your price range or if you do not share their philosophy. Research the different education philosophies if you are on clear on their methods.

7. Schedule a visit for yourself and your spouse to the schools remaining on your list. This is not a visit for you to bring your child; this is an opportunity for you to observe the classroom without distraction.

8. Look for teachers who have taught at the preschool for a long time; this demonstrates a low turnover rate. Also pay attention to the student/teacher ration, the cleanliness of the environment and, most importantly, the interactions between the students with each other and with the teacher(s). Remember to make notes about your impressions after each visit.

9. Remove from your list any preschools that you would not feel comfortable sending your daughter to. You are now left with only a few options for the right preschool for you child; be more selective to your criteria if you have not narrowed your search.

10. Go with your instinct. Once you are left with only two or three acceptable options, your parental instinct will help you make the final choice.