10 Signs of a Great Preschool

The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)'s
10 Signs of a Great Preschool:

1. Children spend most of their playing and working with materials or other children. They do not wander aimlessly, and they are not expected to sit quietly for long periods of time.
2. Children have access to various activities throughout the day. Look for assorted building blocks and other construction materials, props for pretend play, picture books, paints and other art materials, and table toys such as matching games, pegboards and puzzles. Children should not all be doing the same thing at the same time.
3. Teachers work with individual children, small groups, and the whole group at different times during the day. They do not spend all their time with the whole group.
4. The classroom is decorated with children's original artwork, their own writing with invented spelling, and stories dictated by children to teachers.
5. Children learn numbers and the alphabet in the context of their everyday experiences. The natural world of plants and animals and meaningful activities like cooking, taking attendance, or serving snack provide the basis for learning activities.
6. Children work on projects and have long periods of time (at least one hour) to play and explore. Worksheets are used little if at all.
7. Children have an opportunity to play outside every day. Outdoor play is never sacrificed for more instructional time.
8. Teachers read books to children individually or in small groups throughout the day, not just at group story time.
9. Curriculum is adapted for those who are ahead as well as those who need additional help. Teachers recognize that children's different background and experiences mean that they do not learn the same things at the same time in the same way.
10. Children and their parents look forward to school. Parents feel secure about sending their child to the program. Children are happy to attend; they do not cry regularly or complain of feeling sick.

Its Preschool Registration Time! Yes, really!!

If you are thinking about preschool for your child next fall, this is the time to register! It seems early but the time will fly by quickly.

I, of course, have lots to say on the topic, but I will be brief and to the point today.

Things to consider while selecting a preschool:

1. Make sure to take the time to learn about the program including taking a tour while students are present. Nothing will give you a better picture of the program than seeing it in action. And bring your child with you.

2. Find out about the curriculum they use. Personally and professionally, I prefer play-based, process-orientated, child-centered programs. Programs that focus on social-emotional development are more appropriate for young children. (more on these ideas in previous and later posts).

3. Ask questions! Any question you might have about anything, ask it.

There are a lot of fabulous programs out there including your local school district but most have application deadlines this month and next, so get moving. You may find some spots later on but if there is a program you love, apply now!