The Gerber Life Parenting Blog

Choosing a Preschool

September 28, 2012

Mother Taking Son to First Day of PreschoolChoosing a preschool for your kids is no easy task. Your child’s mind is like a sponge in the pre-kindergarten years, so it is no wonder you want to make sure he or she is getting the very best care and education possible during this formidable time. Remember, it is never too early to start looking for preschools, and enrollment in the most prestigious schools fill up fast, so start searching as soon as possible.

Ask for Recommendations

Friends and family members with older children will know which schools have the best reputation for quality care and education. If you do not have access to reliable personal recommendations, consider starting your search online at a consumer review website, such as AngiesList.com. There, you will read unbiased reviews about the preschools in your area, helping you to narrow down your selection when choosing a preschool.

Location

Make sure your child’s preschool is in a location that is convenient for you. After all, accidents do happen, and if your child is ill or in need of a change of clothes, it helps to know that you can be at his or her side in a matter of minutes. If possible, try to narrow down your selection of preschools to those within or near your daily work commute.

Classrooms

According to PBS.org, you should always ask to tour the school of your choice before choosing that preschool — preferably during regular school hours. This will provide you the opportunity to observe the interaction between the teachers and students, as well as identify the teacher-to-student ratio. During early childhood, there should be at least one care provider for every three or four students.

Considerations

Do not feel uncomfortable asking a lot of questions from your child’s potential preschool provider. Parents should be picky with regard to a child’s education and immediate care environment. If you feel like a particular school is not going to provide an inviting or nurturing atmosphere for your children, remember that mom and dad usually know best. Always trust your instincts when choosing a preschool for your child.

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Categories: Parenting Tips
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