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Sending your young child to preschool is an exciting prospect for many parents. Preschool offers an incredible environment to play, grow, and learn and it is often a child’s first experience in a school or academic setting. Selecting a preschool program can be an overwhelming task if you aren’t prepared. Many parents want to be confident in the program they choose – but how do you make the best choice, exactly? Our Orlando area preschool experts put together some specific questions you should ask every preschool program you consider for your child.
What does the curriculum focus on at the preschool?
Parents should always consider the curriculum and educational philosophy of any preschool program they visit. Discovery-based programs and preschools that focus on a play-to-learn basis are important to the success of a young child when it comes to learning and development. While daily structure and skill practicing is essential, parents should look for a preschool that offers opportunities for children to make choices about their learning.
What experience and educational background do the staff and teachers have?
Any legitimate preschool program will have qualified and experienced teachers but it is important to look for centers with teachers and staff that are properly trained (with a Child Development Associate) and have a deep understanding of how children grow and develop. All classroom teachers should also be trained or certified in CPR and lifesaving first aid.
Will my child have active play opportunities to develop both gross & fine motor skills?
Active play is crucial for young children. A preschool program should offer plenty of opportunities for physical activity (both inside & outside) to help promote gross motor skill development as well as crafts & table time to give children exposure to fine motor activity. Running, jumping, climbing, and crawling are all physical activities that will promote health and well-being, whereas activities like stringing beads, cutting with scissors, or coloring with crayons helps children develop hand skills children will need in kindergarten and beyond.
What is a typical day like during a preschooler’s time at school?
Find out how a daily schedule typically runs at every preschool program you visit. Growing children need plenty of rest so a nap is essential at some time during the day, usually after lunch. It is also a good idea to ask if the schools provide meals and snacks or if parents are required to send in food with their child. If the school provides meals, food should be well-balanced and nutritious. Children should also be required to wash their hands and use the restroom before meals as a safety precaution.
How is discipline handled?
Classroom rules should be clear from the get-go and it should be easy for a child to understand and know what is expected of them during their time at preschool. Ask teachers how they plan to encourage positive behavior (i.e. a reward chart or prize chest) and what happens when a child does not follow the rules. Find out what discipline approach the teacher takes when conflicts occur or problem behaviors arise. For young children, positive redirection should be the first course of action, with time outs or cool downs set if a child cannot be easily redirected. A child’s emotion should be acknowledged and teachers should show empathy as preschool children often experience ups and downs during a day at school.
Contact Kids ‘R’ Kids Avalon Park to find out about our excellent preschool programs and to set up a tour at our Avalon Park child care center. Our award-winning curriculum, qualified teachers & staff, and incredible campuses have made us a popular choice for parents in the East Orlando area for good reason.