How to pick a good preschool

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

good preschool activities — Photograph courtesy of Pre-K Now.

• 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

It’s Hechinger’s very own Decision Week!

It’s Hechinger’s very own Decision Week!