How to Choose a Preschool?
It's time to find a preschool or child care provider and you're completely overwhelmed, right? Online data offers a wealth of information about public and private elementary schools, but finding a quality preschool can be more challenging. In this article you'll find tips to help you when you begin choosing a preschool or child care center for your child.
Start by considering your family's needs and budget. Do you need a full-day preschool program with extended care, or is a half-day preschool program sufficient? Are you looking for a program with a particular educational philosophy? Would your child be most successful in a center or a small home setting? Once you've articulated your wish list, you're ready to start actively looking.
What to Look for in a Preschool
• Ask for referrals. Talk with your pediatrician or close friends to get their opinions. Ask them specific questions about a preschool program's philosophy, reputation, teaching staff, and curriculum. Once you've narrowed the search down, it's time to visit the schools.
• Pay attention to that first impression. Parents' intuition is usually right. How do you feel when you walk in the door? Is the space clean, bright, and inviting? Do you feel welcome?
• Learn about accreditation programs. Many child care centers and preschools participate in voluntary accreditation programs, such as the one offered by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Not all high-quality preschools have the resources to go through these rigorous programs, but preschool accreditation does offer an added measure of reassurance.
• Consider the preschool teachers' qualifications. What qualifications do the teachers have? Do they participate in ongoing trainings? How do they interact with the children? How do they handle guidance and discipline?
• Ask about the curriculum. Philosophies and curricula vary widely from one preschool to another. Look for a preschool curriculum that offers rich content, hands-on learning, and developmentally-appropriate play. Does the curriculum address fostering social and emotional development as well as academics? Children should be actively engaged in learning.
• Visit the outdoor space. Outdoor play has taken a back seat to academics in recent years. This trend, which began in elementary schools, is trickling down to preschools. Yet, children's needs haven't changed and outdoor play is still as important as ever. Make sure your preschool provides plenty of time for outdoor play and exposure to nature.
• Look for signs of community. Your family will probably spend a lot of time at your preschool; it will become a place of community, where parents, teachers, and children support each other. Does the preschool offer any events or programs to foster close relationships?
• Read the fine print. Be sure to read the parent handbook before you enroll. Find out about the school's hours, tuition rates, registration fees, and illness and vacation policies. Do the policies seem fair to all parties?
Preschool tips : http://www.preschoolalley.com
Bottom line: ask questions, trust your gut, and follow up. You may want to consider using a resource like the Bright Horizons Quality Preschool Checklist. Even after you've chosen a high-quality preschool, it's important to stay involved. Volunteer occasionally. Work to build open communication with teachers and staff. Listen to your child’s observations about school. Discuss any concerns promptly with your child’s teacher or the preschool director. Remember, you're making an investment in your child's well-being. Spend time thoughtfully choosing a preschool and build strong relationships with the center staff thereafter.
More on This Topic
• Emergent curriculum is an early education approach where teachers design projects unique to a child or group of kids. Learn what makes it successful & find out if it is right for your child.
• How to survive the morning routine with a preschooler and get out the door in the morning.
• Use this tips for helping preschoolers with separation anxiety.
• It takes a special person to be a preschool teacher - here are 25 truths about preschool teachers.
• Get tips for preparing your toddler for preschool.
• Learn how preschool builds confidence and provides skills for school success and ways to extend learning at home.
Starting preschool marks the beginning of a new phase in your child's development and many parents ask themselves "Is my child ready for preschool?" Even if your child has previously attended a toddler program, in the next few months, your preschooler will make new friends, learn new skills, and gain confidence and independence. This early start sets your child on the path for later school success, but it's not always easy. You and your toddler may be feeling a mix of emotions – excitement, apprehension, and even sadness as babyhood disappears.
Preparing your child academically for preschool may be different than what you are expecting. By simply reading, playing, and exploring together, you are helping your child get ready for preschool activities. There are plenty of fun family activities like going for nature walks, working on puzzles and board games, or visiting the library that will help get your toddler ready for preschool. You should offer your child a mix of active, playful experiences and quieter, more focused activities. Color, work with play dough, or string beads together to build fine motor skills. Chances are, you're probably already doing many things to prepare your child for the preschool curriculum.
Dinosaur Activities For Preschoolers Science
http://www.preschoolalley.com/top-5-dinosaur-activities-for-preschoolers-science
Emotionally preparing your child – and yourself – for preschool might take more intentional effort. Below are a few ideas to smoothly make the transition.
Preparation Tips Before Preschool Starts
• Visit the preschool. Visit your child's classroom and meet the preschool teacher a few days ahead of time. Show your child the class schedule if one is posted. Talk about what to expect during each portion of the day. Show your child where she’ll keep her backpack and personal things.
• Read books. Spend time reading books about preschool, such as Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins, Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney, Little School by Beth Norling, or The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn.
• Act it out. Use your child's penchant for pretend play to prepare him for preschool. Pretend that you're going to school, hanging up your backpack, and sitting down for group time. Play games, read stories, and make a simple snack. Teach your child a few basic social skills. Talk about how to get someone's attention, take turns, or join in play. Use puppets to role play.
• Work on self-help skills. Going to preschool marks a big developmental leap for your child and independence will become a larger focus. Help your toddler master self-help skills like washing her hands, using the toilet, putting shoes and socks on, and using utensils at the table.
• Express and acknowledge feelings. Beginning preschool is an exciting adventure, but it's normal for both of you to have feelings of anxiety. To help your child deal with the change anxiety, allow your child to express those feelings. Listen closely and acknowledge your child's fears. At the same time, acknowledge to yourself your own feelings of ambivalence. You might also notice changes in your child's behavior as he works through his feelings. Children often regress in one area as they make developmental growth in another. Children sometimes regress in toilet training or become less independent. With nurturing support, these behavior changes are only temporary.
• Shift your schedule. As your child experiences her first few weeks of preschool, gradually make any necessary changes in your routines. Work to create a calm, peaceful environment at home. Limit media. Enjoy family meals together and make sure your child goes to bed at a reasonable hour. Offer a healthy breakfast and spend time outdoors. Developing consistent, predictable routines a few weeks before school starts will make the transition much smoother.
toddler speech delay exercises
http://www.preschoolalley.com/toddler-speech-delay-exercises-tried-and-tested-tips-for-late-talkers
Preparation Tips for the First Few Days of Preschool
• Get organized. As the first day of preschool approaches, make sure you have clothing, shoes, and backpacks organized and labeled. Turn in all forms to the school. Stock up on healthy snack and lunch foods.
• Stay with your child for 15 to 20 minutes on the first day of preschool. Point out the classroom activities and help your child get involved. Help your child meet a few other children. When it's time to go, offer a hug and a positive, matter-of-fact attitude. "I know that you're going to have a good time today. I'll be back to get you soon."
• Stay involved. Separating from parents is a major milestone. Even if your child has been attending an early childhood program or toddler program, a new classroom and teachers may bring anxiety once again. Children develop independence at different rates with some children being able to separate easily from parents while others need extra support. It’s important to find the right balance for a child to develop independence. Talk with the teacher if your child is struggling with saying goodbye to you. Teachers have a lot of experience with this and can help develop a plan, which might include bringing a photo or "lovey" to school or temporarily shortening the day. Always tell your child when you're leaving, rather than sneaking out, and be prompt for pick-up at the end of the day.
Start by considering your family's needs and budget. Do you need a full-day preschool program with extended care, or is a half-day preschool program sufficient? Are you looking for a program with a particular educational philosophy? Would your child be most successful in a center or a small home setting? Once you've articulated your wish list, you're ready to start actively looking.
What to Look for in a Preschool
• Ask for referrals. Talk with your pediatrician or close friends to get their opinions. Ask them specific questions about a preschool program's philosophy, reputation, teaching staff, and curriculum. Once you've narrowed the search down, it's time to visit the schools.
• Pay attention to that first impression. Parents' intuition is usually right. How do you feel when you walk in the door? Is the space clean, bright, and inviting? Do you feel welcome?
• Learn about accreditation programs. Many child care centers and preschools participate in voluntary accreditation programs, such as the one offered by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Not all high-quality preschools have the resources to go through these rigorous programs, but preschool accreditation does offer an added measure of reassurance.
• Consider the preschool teachers' qualifications. What qualifications do the teachers have? Do they participate in ongoing trainings? How do they interact with the children? How do they handle guidance and discipline?
• Ask about the curriculum. Philosophies and curricula vary widely from one preschool to another. Look for a preschool curriculum that offers rich content, hands-on learning, and developmentally-appropriate play. Does the curriculum address fostering social and emotional development as well as academics? Children should be actively engaged in learning.
• Visit the outdoor space. Outdoor play has taken a back seat to academics in recent years. This trend, which began in elementary schools, is trickling down to preschools. Yet, children's needs haven't changed and outdoor play is still as important as ever. Make sure your preschool provides plenty of time for outdoor play and exposure to nature.
• Look for signs of community. Your family will probably spend a lot of time at your preschool; it will become a place of community, where parents, teachers, and children support each other. Does the preschool offer any events or programs to foster close relationships?
• Read the fine print. Be sure to read the parent handbook before you enroll. Find out about the school's hours, tuition rates, registration fees, and illness and vacation policies. Do the policies seem fair to all parties?
Preschool tips : http://www.preschoolalley.com
Bottom line: ask questions, trust your gut, and follow up. You may want to consider using a resource like the Bright Horizons Quality Preschool Checklist. Even after you've chosen a high-quality preschool, it's important to stay involved. Volunteer occasionally. Work to build open communication with teachers and staff. Listen to your child’s observations about school. Discuss any concerns promptly with your child’s teacher or the preschool director. Remember, you're making an investment in your child's well-being. Spend time thoughtfully choosing a preschool and build strong relationships with the center staff thereafter.
• Emergent curriculum is an early education approach where teachers design projects unique to a child or group of kids. Learn what makes it successful & find out if it is right for your child.
• How to survive the morning routine with a preschooler and get out the door in the morning.
• Use this tips for helping preschoolers with separation anxiety.
• It takes a special person to be a preschool teacher - here are 25 truths about preschool teachers.
• Get tips for preparing your toddler for preschool.
• Learn how preschool builds confidence and provides skills for school success and ways to extend learning at home.
Starting preschool marks the beginning of a new phase in your child's development and many parents ask themselves "Is my child ready for preschool?" Even if your child has previously attended a toddler program, in the next few months, your preschooler will make new friends, learn new skills, and gain confidence and independence. This early start sets your child on the path for later school success, but it's not always easy. You and your toddler may be feeling a mix of emotions – excitement, apprehension, and even sadness as babyhood disappears.
Preparing your child academically for preschool may be different than what you are expecting. By simply reading, playing, and exploring together, you are helping your child get ready for preschool activities. There are plenty of fun family activities like going for nature walks, working on puzzles and board games, or visiting the library that will help get your toddler ready for preschool. You should offer your child a mix of active, playful experiences and quieter, more focused activities. Color, work with play dough, or string beads together to build fine motor skills. Chances are, you're probably already doing many things to prepare your child for the preschool curriculum.
Dinosaur Activities For Preschoolers Science
http://www.preschoolalley.com/top-5-dinosaur-activities-for-preschoolers-science
Emotionally preparing your child – and yourself – for preschool might take more intentional effort. Below are a few ideas to smoothly make the transition.
Preparation Tips Before Preschool Starts
• Visit the preschool. Visit your child's classroom and meet the preschool teacher a few days ahead of time. Show your child the class schedule if one is posted. Talk about what to expect during each portion of the day. Show your child where she’ll keep her backpack and personal things.
• Read books. Spend time reading books about preschool, such as Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins, Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney, Little School by Beth Norling, or The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn.
• Act it out. Use your child's penchant for pretend play to prepare him for preschool. Pretend that you're going to school, hanging up your backpack, and sitting down for group time. Play games, read stories, and make a simple snack. Teach your child a few basic social skills. Talk about how to get someone's attention, take turns, or join in play. Use puppets to role play.
• Work on self-help skills. Going to preschool marks a big developmental leap for your child and independence will become a larger focus. Help your toddler master self-help skills like washing her hands, using the toilet, putting shoes and socks on, and using utensils at the table.
• Express and acknowledge feelings. Beginning preschool is an exciting adventure, but it's normal for both of you to have feelings of anxiety. To help your child deal with the change anxiety, allow your child to express those feelings. Listen closely and acknowledge your child's fears. At the same time, acknowledge to yourself your own feelings of ambivalence. You might also notice changes in your child's behavior as he works through his feelings. Children often regress in one area as they make developmental growth in another. Children sometimes regress in toilet training or become less independent. With nurturing support, these behavior changes are only temporary.
• Shift your schedule. As your child experiences her first few weeks of preschool, gradually make any necessary changes in your routines. Work to create a calm, peaceful environment at home. Limit media. Enjoy family meals together and make sure your child goes to bed at a reasonable hour. Offer a healthy breakfast and spend time outdoors. Developing consistent, predictable routines a few weeks before school starts will make the transition much smoother.
toddler speech delay exercises
http://www.preschoolalley.com/toddler-speech-delay-exercises-tried-and-tested-tips-for-late-talkers
Preparation Tips for the First Few Days of Preschool
• Get organized. As the first day of preschool approaches, make sure you have clothing, shoes, and backpacks organized and labeled. Turn in all forms to the school. Stock up on healthy snack and lunch foods.
• Stay with your child for 15 to 20 minutes on the first day of preschool. Point out the classroom activities and help your child get involved. Help your child meet a few other children. When it's time to go, offer a hug and a positive, matter-of-fact attitude. "I know that you're going to have a good time today. I'll be back to get you soon."
• Stay involved. Separating from parents is a major milestone. Even if your child has been attending an early childhood program or toddler program, a new classroom and teachers may bring anxiety once again. Children develop independence at different rates with some children being able to separate easily from parents while others need extra support. It’s important to find the right balance for a child to develop independence. Talk with the teacher if your child is struggling with saying goodbye to you. Teachers have a lot of experience with this and can help develop a plan, which might include bringing a photo or "lovey" to school or temporarily shortening the day. Always tell your child when you're leaving, rather than sneaking out, and be prompt for pick-up at the end of the day.
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