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jennyjo January 21, 2008

Where to start??

jennyjo
ok my daughter will be 4 in may.. about time to start preschool right?? where do i start?? i found the ones in the area now what do i look for?
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Parent Answers to "Where to start??"

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lisaedit
GreatSchools Staff lisaedit January 23, 2008
There's nothing better than visiting schools to get a feel for what's the right environment for your child. You'll want to look at different types of programs. Will your child do better in a more academically oriented, structured program or is a play-based program more up her alley? Look at the ratio of staff to children and how long the staff have been there. Beware if there is a lot of staff turnover. Look at how clean and safe the environment is and what the procedures are for releasing a child to the proper adult at the end of school. Check with your local Mothers' Club, if there's one in your area, or the local state-affiliated childcare resource and referral agency for some recommendations. Also check this Web site: www.savvysource.com/ to see advice on choosing a preschool and preschool profiles. Good luck with your search!
Laurann
Laurann January 22, 2008
Hi!
I found it was best to visit the preschool while it was in session - you get a feel for the classroom and the teacher. There are a few things to consider...
#1) do I want a 5 day program or 3 day program
#2) full day or half day
#3) public or private
#4) how many students do I feel my child will excel with ( small or large)

Definitely do go and speak to the teacher. When you find the right fit , you will know it!
Good luck!
healthy11
healthy11 January 21, 2008
It's not mandatory for kids to attend preschool in the U.S. If you want your daughter to attend a preschool, but aren't sure what kind, I'd advise speaking with other parents in your neighborhood, along with calling and setting up a visit to ones you decide you're interested in. Some parents may have specific desires, like an affiliation with a church that they belong to, or sending their kids to a place where they can carpool with other parents. Some may be seeking a pre-K program combined with extended day care, if they work. (Some YMCAs might offer that.) Each will have different costs and different registration deadlines. Some may have morning programs, others in the afternoon. If your child still naps, take that into consideration. Until you get more information, it's difficult to make a decision, but by calling/visiting, you'll begin to feel more comfortable.
Any contributed content above is the subjective opinion of that member or external author, and not of GreatSchools. GreatSchools does not check for accuracy in community posts or verify the contributor’s identity. If you are searching for health-related advice we strongly suggest you seek professional medical support. View our Community Guidelines for more details.

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