Choosing a preschool for your child is a decision that needs to be taken after considering many parameters as mentioned in my article named “How to choose a preschool for your child”. After choosing a preschool that fits your criteria, you should also look upon the following qualities of the preschool for ensuring that your kid gets to choose the best possible option and avails maximum benefit from your decision.
Here are some points to be considered:
1. CLEAN, KID-FRIENDLY SPACES: During your preschool visit, check that the room is not only cheerful and inviting, but also divided into different areas (a corner for books, another for water play). There should be plenty of room for little ones to move around and explore. Each child should have her own easy-to-access cubby, and toilets and sinks should be kid-sized. Also make sure the classroom passes your smell test — no cigarette smoke, spoiled food, or dirty toilets.
- Preschoolers need to feel that this is their home away from home and be comfortable enough either to do their own thing or to play in small groups. They also need to be able to reach the materials in the classroom.
- Preschoolers learn best by doing, playing, and exploring, which means they should discover letters, numbers, science, and music through fun, hands-on activities — with no pressure to perform well.
3. INVOLVED PRESCHOOL TEACHERS :Preschool teachers and their assistants should be busy and fully engaged — solving problems, drawing a quiet child out of her shell, and guiding activities without taking them over — not looking detached or preoccupied (or chatting with each other). On the other hand, they shouldn’t be hovering so much that kids can’t do their own supervised thing. Preschool teachers should have at least two years of college and a background in early childhood development and other emergency training.
When you're at the school, observe how staff members interact with the children. Teachers should be responsible, enthusiastic, and well prepared. Make sure the preschool has a staff large enough to give your child the attention and care he needs.
When you're at the school, observe how staff members interact with the children. Teachers should be responsible, enthusiastic, and well prepared. Make sure the preschool has a staff large enough to give your child the attention and care he needs.
- Problems can pop up at any moment, even when kids are playing on their own.
4. COLORFUL ARTWORK: Lots and lots of drawings, paintings, and other creations, should decorate the classroom at a child’s eye level. Also the drawings and artwork done by students themselves should be put on display.
- Seeing art on display boosts a little one’s creative confidence, showing her that her efforts are valued and nurturing the budding artist within.
5. PLENTY OF TOYS AND MATERIALS: It goes without saying that all playthings should be safe, age-appropriate, and in good condition. On your preschool visit, you’ll also want to see a wide variety of toys that encourage open-ended play and creativity, like cars and blocks, puzzles, dolls and dress-up clothes, and other role-playing favorites, like toy kitchens. And of course, lots and lots of books that can be picked up and “read” anytime.
6. A STIMULATING CURRICULUM: The best preschools have daily schedules that include plenty of time for physical activity, quiet time (including regular story time), group programs, socializing, crafts, individual activities, meals, snacks, and free time. TV and videos should not play a big part in your child's day.
A well-designed curriculum stimulates your child's development and makes daily life more fun. The curriculum should change over time, giving your child the chance to try something new. It should also be adjusted to match each child's abilities and skill levels.
7. A GOOD REPUTATION: A good preschool should have a welcoming, friendly atmosphere and be known for its nurturing environment and stimulating curriculum. Ask the school for the names and numbers of current parents you could call for a reference, or stop by during afternoon pickup time and approach other parents.Of course, try not to form a definite opinion about a school until you see it for yourself.
8. A CURRENT LICENSE: Ask to see a preschool's license and credentials, and then call your local social services department to double check that it's current. To be licensed, preschools must meet state licensing regulations for health and safety.
- A license isn’t everything, but if a preschool doesn’t have one, passes.
9. ENSURE SAFETY FOR YOUR CHILD: Make sure the preschool follows the basic rules of safety. Strangers shouldn't be able to just walk in off the street – and children shouldn't be able to wander out.
Medication and all other hazardous substances should be stored out of reach, and the outdoor play area should be level and secure.
Working smoke detectors should be in place, radiators and heaters should be covered or otherwise protected, and a first-aid kit and fire extinguisher should be close at hand.
10. AMPLE OPEN SPACE: Look for a school with an outdoor play area. Children should have the chance to play outside every day – running, jumping, and skipping are good for them physically, mentally, and socially. If you live in a city, it can be difficult for even the best preschools to have enough space for a safe outdoor play yard. Make sure the preschool you choose has the next best thing – a spacious indoor area.