It is important to make the right decision when choosing a preschool for your child. Many families are placing their child in the care of someone else for the first time. This is a mixed feeling. You want to find a place where your child can grow and learn in a nurturing environment.
With so many choices, it is easy to get overwhelmed. What should you be looking for? How can you tell if the preschool you are considering is “the right one”?
This guide provides parents with simple and practical tips that will help them navigate the process more confidently and with less stress.
1. Know what you value most
Take a few moments to consider your values and the unique needs of your child before you begin visiting schools or filling in applications. Do you want a program with a strong academic focus? Is social-emotional growth more important?
Consider the following:
- The ratio of children to teachers and the size of the class
- Curriculum style (play-based, Montessori, academic, etc.)
- Routines and daily schedule
- Discipline and behavior: A new approach
- Supporting children with diverse learning needs
It’s not a one-size fits all preschool. You can narrow your options by determining what is most important to you and your family.
2. Find qualified, caring teachers
It is the quality of teachers that can make or break a preschool. You should look for teachers who are friendly, enthusiastic, and have experience in the early childhood development. Look at how they interact with children. Are they on eye level? Are they polite and attentive?
The success of your preschool is largely determined by the nurturing relationship you have with your child’s teacher. Ask about the qualifications of teachers, their training and how long they typically remain at the school.
3. Visit and observe
It is possible to learn a great deal from a brochure or website, but seeing the school at work cannot be replaced. Visit the school during normal working hours to see how it runs.
Ask yourself these questions during your visit:
- Are the children happy, engaged and comfortable?
- Is your classroom safe, clean and well-organized?
- What age-appropriate toys and learning materials are available?
- The outdoor play area is well maintained?
You should always trust your gut instinct. It’s okay to continue looking if something doesn’t seem right.
4. Ask about Communication
Ask about the communication between you and your school. You should ask how frequently parents will receive updates, and what kind of communication they can expect. Do they send out daily reports, photos, or newsletters? Teachers are easily accessible to parents.
A strong parent-school relationship builds trust, and it helps you to stay involved in the learning process of your child.
5. Take Logistics into Account, but Don’t Let them Lead
You’ll need to consider the location, schedule and cost. The preschool should fit your family’s budget and daily schedule. Try not to choose a school solely based on convenience. It may be worth the extra drive to find a school that fosters your child’s growth.
6. Ask about Transitions and Readiness
It’s important to understand how the school manages transitions if this is your child’s first experience in a structured environment. Does the school offer an orientation or gradual start? How do they help children who are nervous, shy or new to playing in groups?
The transition to preschool can be much easier for kids and their parents if the school is sensitive to a child’s readiness on an emotional level.
Final Thoughts
The decision to choose a preschool depends on the personality of your child, your family needs and what type of learning environment is most important to you. Ask lots of questions and follow your instincts.
You’ll know that you made the right decision when you find a school where your child is safe, feels encouraged and wants to learn.
This post was written by a professional at Baby Fox Academy of Florida. Baby Fox Academy, preschool Lakewood Ranch, FL is your premier choice for high-quality early childhood education, blending structured learning with the magic of play. Owned and operated by Laurie and Matt McCracken, Baby Fox Academy benefits from Laurie’s 25+ years of experience in early childhood education. Our play-based curriculum supports every child’s growth, balancing indoor and outdoor activities that build fine motor skills, creativity, language, and independence. With engaging tools like puzzles, dramatic play, and art, children develop essential skills while exploring their world. Parents can check in anytime via secure “Trail Cams” through WatchMeGrow, giving peace of mind while children learn, play, and grow. At Baby Fox Academy, your “baby fox” will thrive in a nurturing environment designed to inspire a lifelong love of learning.