How to Find the Perfect Preschool

We were running errands when one of my teens shouted, “Look! It’s our old preschool!” Soon my other kids were chiming in, “I loved it there!” and, “That was my favorite school. Do you remember when…” Just like that, we walked down memory lane, reminiscing about craft projects, field trips and that time the teacher helped with a loose tooth that just wouldn’t budge.

It makes me happy that my kids remember their preschool days as fondly as I do. Finding a good preschool may seem stressful, but when you focus on the right things, you’ll find the perfect spot for your family. Here are tips to help find a great preschool environment:

Start with parents. Find out what local preschools they love and why. Ask if they are friends with other families there. Ask about teachers. The most important thing is to talk to real people. Don’t rely solely on social media and online reviews for information.

Talk to kids. At the park, at the library, at your friend’s houses. Find out what kids love doing at preschool or what their favorite parts of the school day are. Ask to see their latest project. Most kids are thrilled to share their expertise. You can learn a lot from them when you ask specific questions and listen.

Consider schedule. Does the school have a schedule that works for your family? It is essential that days and hours align with your needs. There are schools with two-day, three-day or fiveday programs. Some meet for half-day, while others meet all day. Some include lunch; others do not.

Ask about educational philosophy. Every school has a unique approach. Some schools focus on academics, while others focus on play-based activities or social skills. Some schools emphasize nature-based learning, while others focus on the arts. Don’t get distracted by what the philosophies are called; think about how your child’s personality and interests, and your family’s values, line up with what the school offers.

Talk money. It is essential that school tuition fits your family’s budget. Consider extras such as fundraisers, field trips, school supplies and parties. Be bold about these things in advance so you are not blindsided by unexpected expenses. Choosing a school your family can afford creates a less stressful environment for all involved.

Ask about parent involvement. Find out how much parents are expected to be involved and make sure you are comfortable with it. Some schools ask for regular parent volunteers during school, while others only invite parents for holidays and year-end programs. Parents may be required to help with school events or field trips

Observe. Ask if there is a good time to visit during a school day. Watching the school in action is one of the best ways to discover if it will be a good fit. Chat with parents at drop-off or pickup (or ask for parent references). Observe kids as they interact with each other. Get a feel for the atmosphere your child would be learning in.

Finding the perfect preschool can be a little time-consuming, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Be realistic about your family’s needs and how they match up with the schools you’re considering. With these tips, you will discover a learning environment that is right for your children. v

Rebecca Hastings is a freelance writer and mom of three.