Tips to Pick the Best Preschool Program

Deciding on a preschool is an important decision that could ultimately shape the rest of your child’s life. There are many factors to consider, but follow our expert tips listed below to help in your decision:

Location and Logistics

Consider how far away the school is and if the commute to get your child to and from preschool would fit into your daily routine. Additionally, take into account how close the school would be to your workplace in case you would need to pick your child up in case of an emergency. Check if the school has childcare services in the morning and/or afternoon that you might need.

Educational Approach

Ask what methodology the school uses to teach the children their ABCs, 123s, and beyond. Focus on these basics, especially in your child’s early years, has been shown to indicate success later in life. Make sure to understand whether the focus is on individuality, creative thinking, analytical thought, etc. If your child has a certain way of learning, you want to ensure that the school will be the best fit for your child’s unique needs.

Learning and Playing

Make sure there is a good mix of imaginative and physical play. Imaginative play can help develop and improve a child’s behavioral and emotional skills. This type of play can include playing pretend, dressing up in costume, and pretend kitchen and food sets. On the other hand, physical play can help to develop a child’s motor skills. See what playground equipment is available and what activities the teachers like to utilize to get their students up and moving.

Teacher/Student Interactions

One of the most important things to observe when considering a school is how the teachers and students interact with one another. Look to see if the teachers are positively engaged and encouraging of students. Ask the teachers how they handle any conflicts that may arise. Take note of this and see if it aligns with how situations are handled at home. The more discipline at home and in the classroom align, the more consistency can occur with your child.

Plan a Trip

You can learn a lot about a school just by stopping in for a visit. First off, do you feel welcome? If something seems off from the get-go, that school may not be the right fit. Things to pay attention to are how the staff and teachers interact with one another and especially the children, the school is clean and well-maintained, and the children there appear to be happy and engaged. If at all possible, bring your child with you to see how they feel in that school environment. If a trip is not possible, contact other parents whose children are enrolled and see what information they have about the school.

 

Here at Kids ‘R’ Kids Avalon Park, we always put the needs of children first. We love to foster a positive, educational environment that is fun and exciting. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a visit to one of our amazing campuses, give us a call today!