Here are some things to look for in a preschool program:
• Teachers have four-year degrees and specific training in early childhood education
• Teachers provide actual instruction, not just comfort and nurture
• Teacher-to-child ratios of 1 to 3 for infants and 1 to 10 for preschoolers
• No more than eight infants and toddlers and no more than 20 preschoolers in a single classroom
• Teachers crouch to eye level to speak with children, and teachers hold, cuddle, show affection to and speak directly with infants and toddlers
• Teacher and family exchange information about a child’s development and learning progress
• Sufficient materials and toys, accessible to children in an orderly display and at their eye-level
• Centers that have space for safe outdoor activities
• Frequent hand-washing by children and adults
• Visitors welcomed with appropriate parental consent
• Stimulating activities and structured routines
• Children appear enthusiastic to participate in activities
• Children are offered breakfast and lunch, as well as time to nap
• Children participate with teachers and one another in individual, small-group and large-group activities
• Children spend time in indoor and outdoor spaces, and engage in language, literacy, math, science, art, music, movement and dramatic play experiences.
• Preschoolers are allowed to play independently
Adapted from recommendations made by the First Five Years Fund
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