Choosing a Preschool: 3 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Making a Decision

Choosing a preschool for your child can be a difficult decision. Your relatives, friends, and neighbors may be able to provide you with recommendations, but it’s important for you to do your own research too. At Severna Park Children’s Centre, Inc., a daycare center in Pasadena, Maryland, we understand that every child is different. What works for one child may not work for another.

If you are looking for tips that can help you choose a preschool, here are some questions that you should consider:

• How does the school environment and classroom look?
  One of a parent’s top concerns when sending their children to preschool is their safety. Before deciding on any one school, try to schedule a tour first. How does the classroom look? How about the school environment in general? Is it clean and free from any smells? Are the learning materials and equipment carefully maintained? Do they have sufficient space and tables and chairs? Try to observe the learning materials as well: Are they age-appropriate? Can they spark your children’s imagination and learning? You can get answers simply by calling the school, but it would be best if you can schedule a visit and spend time observing the place firsthand.
• Are the teachers and staff qualified?
  Quality preschools hire teachers with the right credentials and experience. A well-trained childhood educator will have taken classes in early childhood education. This includes an understanding of how to interact with children and how to nurture their early education skills. Besides having formal training, consider the personality of their teachers as well. Do they have a passion for young children? Are they patient and understanding? To get a better sense of the staff’s personality, schedule a meeting with them before making any final decisions.
• What programs and activities do they offer?
  A good preschool classroom should keep your child busy. It should be full of scheduled activities, learning opportunities, and have lots of different accessible learning materials (i.e. picture books, art materials, puzzles, props for dramatic play, and more). Each classroom should be able to meet your children’s specific developmental needs as well.

If you are looking for a premier child care centre in Pasadena, Maryland, we are here for you. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions. We would be happy to accommodate your inquiries and requests.