When choosing a preschool, you want the best early child development program that fits your child’s needs and your budget. But not all programs are created equal. Schedule a tour with your prospective child care centers—and come prepared to ask these seven questions that will help you make the best choice.

Seven Factors to Consider When Searching for an Early Child Development Program

1. Educational Philosophy

A preschool’s educational philosophy is made up of the values and methods that drive the school’s curriculum and teaching techniques. Find out how their teachers apply that philosophy in the classroom.  

2. Teacher & Staff Qualifications

Find out what kind of education the school’s teachers and staff are required to have and how much ongoing education they participate in each year. Do the educators have teaching degrees or certificates in early child development? What about the school’s leaders?

3. Teacher Turnover

Children thrive best in a consistent environment among teachers who know them well. Consistency can be compromised in an early child development program with a revolving door of teachers. Make sure that the facility you choose is dedicated to maintaining continuous relationships between the staff and the students. 

4. Discipline Procedures

Ask how the school handles children who are disruptive or not following the rules. Even if your child is exceptionally well-behaved, you’ll still want to know how the school handles those who interrupt the learning process for other students.

5. Safety Plans & Procedures

Ask about fire and inclement weather safety procedures as well as how the staff handles medical emergencies and non-emergencies. Look for ample, well-marked exits.

6. Parental Involvement

How often and in what manner does the school involve parents in the educational process? Find out how they conduct parent/teacher conferences and how they handle parent concerns. If you’re interested in volunteering in your child’s school, find out what opportunities they offer.  

7. Building Security

Check out the building’s entrances and ask about the entrance policy. Are the doors locked during the school day? How do adults gain admittance when school is in session? Ask about the child pick-up policy and how the teachers ensure children are only picked up by authorized adults.

Plainville Early Learning Center in Connecticut offers high-quality, affordable education for children between the ages of 18 months and 11 years old. The full-day, half-day, and before- and after-school care programs nurture every aspect of your child’s development. Call (860) 747-3321 or contact the director online to schedule a tour.