http://www.babysafetyzone.com/child-care/choosing-a-preschool.html Choosing a preschool can be fun. Here are some things to consider when choosing a preschool for your child. en-us Tue, 17 Jan 2006 09:37:56 EST Tue, 17 Jan 2006 09:37:56 EST Weblog Editor 2.0 Preschool serves a dual purpose: it helps kids learn how to socialize with others their own age and it gets them ready for kindergarten. Here are some things to consider when choosing a preschool. How to Choose When choosing a preschool for your child, start off by asking your friends with children if they liked where their child went to preschool or if they know of a good one they can suggest. Chances are you'll check out a few before choosing one. The best way to do that is to compile a list of preschools, then stop by to observe. If they require you to have an appointment, ask why. If there's a good reason, fine. If that's just the way they do things, beware. Preschool teachers should be ready to expect the unexpected when dealing with preschool-aged children. A parent dropping by to check things out is definitely unexpected. Plus, if you have an appointment, you will likely see the center at its best. This gives them time to prepare. That's fine, but wouldn't you rather see it the way it really is? Ask the preschool teachers what the policy is on sick children. After all, you want your child to enjoy preschool and learn things, not get sick. Also, ask about the qualifications of the teachers.There is a certain element of child care in preschool. You have to be able to trust that when you leave your child there, he or she is in good hands. It doesn't hurt to choose a preschool with a good curriculum either. Some preschools teach different languages, ABCs, counting, etc. while others are not a lot more than organized day care. It all depends on what you want for your child. Finally, you should consider preschool safety. First of all, they should have strict policies about who your child leaves with. They should at least require a list from you of people who are allowed to pick up your child, and anytime those people pick your child up, he or she should have to show their ID and sign the child out. In addition, check the condition of the playground equipment. Make sure it's in good shape and has an appropriate amount of cushioning underneath it. Also, make sure the daycare facility is clean and sanitized each night so your child doesn't get sick. Tue, 17 Jan 2006 09:37:56 EST