by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: October 04, 2010

Preschool is an option for many families.  There are several considerations parents need to examine when selecting a preschool.

~ What is the purpose for this child to attend preschool?
There are many reasons a child may be attending preschool.  The parents may just need a productive babysitting service. It may be the child needs socialization skills and contact with other children.  It could be the child is gifted and needs to be challenged.

Before shopping for a preschool identify the purpose for the school.   It makes a difference in what to look for.

~ Check for cleanliness
Some times cleanliness takes a back seat. Ask the hard questions and see if the response is immediate. If they have to stop and think about the answer, it may be an indication of a problem.  How often are the toys disinfected? How often are the carpets shampooed? If the children have rest time how is cleanliness and bedding handled?

~ Student to teacher ratio
There is a time for individual attention and a time for group activities with less supervision.  Both scenarios are important for the child to experience.  A child may be very intimidated in a small class and thrive in large group activities.  This is good information to know when they are getting ready for their formal education.

~ Proximity to home or work
Travel time matters.  How do the children get to preschool and get home.  Is it safe?  Is it convenient? Is it a reasonable amount of time for a preschool student to be in a car? It is too much for a parent to get the child there on time? All these questions need to be resolved.

~ Teaching methods
Again this is a very personal family decision. How does your child learn? What methods work with the parenting style in the home? A parent who is a successful disciplinarian at home may require a very structured preschool. If a parent wants more a free unstructured environment then they need to look for that kind of setting.

~ Cost
If it does not fit in the family budget, it should not be an option.  Preschool in many cases is not a necessity. It certainly should not be a financial drain on the family.  So search out programs that are with in the family budget.  There are many free preschool programs that children can attend for an hour a day.

It is clear that selecting the right preschool takes some time and effort.  Get recommendations from friends and associates.  Make visits to many locations and see what there is to offer.  It is important that  parents feel comfortable and know their child will be safe and well cared for at preschool.  Take the time to do it right.

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