It’s not easy to pick the preschool where your child will be getting their first years of education. Choosing a preschool is important and it should not to be taken lightly because this is the phase where they will learn the fundamentals of education. This is also where they will develop the skills that they need for their future learning endeavors. Therefore, it’s imperative that you pick the preschool that is going to be a good fit for your child. Take time to check the program and curriculum offered in the school. It may be quite an overwhelming task, but here’s a guide to help you get started.
Start with the basics
Find a preschool that suits your child’s needs
The best way to avoid becoming overwhelmed with the entire process is to start with the basics. Think about your top priorities. For example, decide if the preschool should be near your home or office. Would you rather have childcare services in the morning or in the afternoon? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options based on the location and type of setting you are looking for.
Do your research
Once you have narrowed down the general location and setting that would best suit your child, you can continue to narrow down your options. Reach out to your peers, family and friends and seek out feedback and recommendations. Ask them about a quality preschools in your community. Take note of their suggestions and ask specific questions. Ask about the programs offered in the school, as well as their curriculum and student-teacher ratio.
The internet is also another excellent resource to use for researching centers. Based on the list you’ve come up with, check each of the preschool’s websites. This is a good way to learn more about what’s being offered in the school as far as education programs are concerned. Find out more about their activities and events. Are there any noteworthy issues or reviews that may indicate a red flag?
Schedule visits to the centers
After coming up with two to three top choices based on your research, it’s time to schedule your tours. There will be a lot more to learn when you visit the preschool with your child. During your tour, observation the setting and ask some questions. Does the environment feel welcoming and inviting? Does your child seem interested in what the preschool has to offer? Is the place safe for your child? How do the teachers and the students interact?
Talk to the director, teachers and the staff. Find out what plans are in place for the students for this particular year. Learn more about their program and curriculum. Also, take some time to chat with the teachers as they are the ones who have direct access to the students. Be prepared for the visit. Create your list of questions before you start the tour. Create a checklist, of the things that you are looking for in a preschool. Then take notes as you visit each preschool. Doing this will help you find the one that will meet your child’s needs.
Consider your child’s opinion
Bringing your child with you during the tours lets them get a general feel of the preschool that they may be attending. . So before making a final decision, ask your child which of the schools they like best. Ask them where they will be comfortable and happy. After all, what matters most is knowing that your child will enjoy their whole learning experience.
It may be tough to choose the right preschool for your child, but these tips can serve as your guide in making those preschool decisions.