How to Pick a Preschool

Children need a preschool environment that is a good match to their personality and learning style. Young children can find big changes difficult. Moving from one program to another can slow their learning process and cause behavior problems. Hopefully this handout will help you find the right place the first time.

Activity Level ~ Whether you have a bundle of energy or a quiet, shy child, look for a program that supports your child’s activity level.

Routine ~ See whether the program offers the right level of structure or flexibility in their daily routine, depending on what your child needs.

Transition ~ If your child is likely to need time to settle into a new setting, make sure the staff will put the effort into involving your child in activities and with playtime.

Sensory ~ Not every child thrives in a noisy room or with messy activities. Look for a program that offers some quiet places children can retreat to if needed. Look for a program that will work with children who have touch sensitivities if needed.

Attention Span ~ See if teachers will positively work with children who need help following through with projects or picking up after themselves

No Flip Cards Please ~ Parents may want to forget about educational “buzzwords” and focus more on the teachers and teaching style of the program. When visiting programs really watch how teachers interact with the children.

Learning ~ Although preschools are learning places, young children do not developmentally learn best in a formal classroom. They tend to get anxious, bored and may act out. Find a program that offers a rich activity-based learning environment. Young children learn best when learning is part of play.

Liberty and Limits ~ See that the program has a good balance between children having the freedom to make choices but also some limits. A few, clear rules are far better than a long list of fussy and confusing rules.

Environment ~ A good classroom is structured to offer choices between several activity areas. Look at it from a child’s point of view. Does the layout encourage children to join activities, pull out books or toys? Is the artwork displayed at the children’s eye level? Is there enough room for children adults to comfortably fit? Are there enough supplies in each area (e.g. blocks, puzzles) for any interested children to stay busy? See that your child has some kind of cubby to put their own stuff from home in.

This information is brought to you by The Job Council’s Child Care Resource Network.

Call 776-1234 or 1-800-866-9034 or at www.jobcouncil.org for more information or referrals