Today we’re talking about local preschools and how to determine which preschool near you is the best fit for your child and your family’s needs.
Preschool shopping can feel overwhelming. How will I know what school is right for my child? This is a question I was asked a lot when I was working in the early childhood education space for many years.
It was my favorite question, I love helping parents find the best school fit for their kids. I developed a system of questions a parent should ask themselves and schools they are interviewing to help find the best fit.
Keep reading for more tips on how to evaluate preschools in the area, and a few of our favorite ones.
XO,
Deena
Preschool research tip #1: Determine what you want your child to gain from their time at school
All childcare programs should offer learning in three categories: academic preparation, social emotional learning and independent building skills.
Look for a program that focuses on all of the three categories.
Of course, not all categories can be focused on equally. Think about which category best fits your child’s needs and your goals for your child while in care, then search for a program that best aligns with said needs.
Another category to assess is faith based needs, if you are looking for childcare that teaches your family’s faith, make sure to keep those needs in consideration.
Preschool research tip #2: How to evaluate a school’s safety
While touring a school make sure to ask about the school’s safety procedures, check to see if gates have locks, ask about the drop off and pick up procedures, evaluate the classroom’s environment- make sure that outlets are covered, toys appear in good condition, cabinets are childproofed, etc.
If the school you are touring is licensed by the state of Arizona, you are able to look up the school on the state database to evaluate their current ratings, past ratings and see if there are any complaints against the school.
The most important way to evaluate a school’s safety is to notice how you feel in the school. Ask yourself, “Do I feel comfortable leaving my child here?” Trust your mom-gut.
Preschool research tip #3: Talk to the teachers
A great way to determine if a learning environment is the best fit for your family is to talk to the teachers and supporting staff.
When you are touring the school, do the teachers and staff look happy? Are they smiling and laughing? Do they look like they have a positive working community?
I always say the best way to assess a school is by watching the teachers. A school with happy teachers, has happy students.
Watch how the teachers engage with the students. Do the teachers come down to the students eye level? Do they speak in a clear loving voice? Is the teacher’s methods of engagement with the students a way that aligns with your parenting style?
My go to three questions to ask when touring a school:
- What behavior correction curriculum or method is used in the classroom? Or How do you manage behavior in the classroom?
- What certifications do your teachers have? What training do your teachers attend throughout the year?
- What is your teacher retention rate?
Preschool research tip #4: Ask other local moms for recommendations
Lastly, In my opinion the BEST, BEST way to find out if a school is right for your family is by talking to moms.
Reach out to local mom groups in your community- ask for recommendations.
When touring a school ask for references from current or past parents who went through the program.
Moms will always tell you the truth, they will tell you what they like and what they don’t.
At the end of the day, you know your kid the best. Trust your mom’s intuition and you will find the best school to help your kid thrive. The most important part of finding a school is feeling confident in your choice. When you feel confident, so will your kiddo.
Happy school searching!
Resources
Arizona Department of Health Child Care Licensing
Arizona Head Start Learning Program
4 Ways To Spot an Authentic Montessori Education
How to Start a Preschool Co-Op
Resources for Home Preschool from a Former Teacher
4 Tips on Preparing Your Child (and yourself!) for their first day of childcare/preschool
