How to Choose a Preschool in Washington State: A Parent’s Guide
Learn how to choose the best preschool for your child with this comprehensive guide. Discover key factors like safety, staff qualifications, curriculum, and more for parents.
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Choosing the right preschool is a critical decision in a child's early education. As parents, we want a safe, nurturing environment where our toddlers can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. But with so many options available, how do you ensure that you're making the best choice? This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when choosing a preschool, providing clarity during what can feel like an overwhelming process.
When evaluating preschools, there are several important factors to consider. Each preschool will have its own strengths and weaknesses, but understanding what to prioritize can help you make the best decision for your child.
Your child's safety should be the top priority. When visiting preschools, observe how well the facility is maintained. Are the classrooms clean and organized? Is the outdoor play area secure?
Look for security measures such as monitored entry and exit points, teacher supervision, and childproofing. Preschool should not only be a place for learning but also a place where parents can feel confident about their child’s safety.
The qualifications and demeanor of the teaching staff are crucial. Preschool teachers should be nurturing and patient, and they should have the necessary educational background in early childhood development. Don't hesitate to ask about staff qualifications or turnover rates. You want a preschool with consistent, experienced staff who will form strong, supportive bonds with your child.
The curriculum should strike a balance between structured learning and play. While academic readiness is important, so is fostering creativity and social skills. A good preschool provides opportunities for children to explore, ask questions, and solve problems through play-based learning.
Smaller class sizes with lower student-to-teacher ratios are ideal. These allow for more personalized attention, ensuring that teachers can focus on each child's individual needs. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) recommends a ratio of 1:10 for preschool-aged children.
Finally, consider the location of the preschool. Is it close to your home or workplace? Convenience is key, especially when managing busy work schedules and daily drop-offs and pickups.
For more on what to look for, check out this helpful guide by Hopkins Medicine.
Parents often wonder about the differences between preschools and daycares. While both provide care and education, there are distinct differences that could influence your decision.
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Preschools tend to focus more on early childhood education, preparing children for kindergarten and beyond. They follow a curriculum that encourages social, emotional, and cognitive development. Daycares, on the other hand, typically offer more flexible hours and are geared towards providing a safe environment for children while parents work.
Daycares usually accept children from infancy up to preschool age, while preschools often cater to children between ages 3 and 5. Some preschools also offer toddler programs to bridge the gap between daycare and full-fledged preschool.
Daycare centers often provide more flexible scheduling options to accommodate working parents, with extended hours for full-day care. Preschools, in contrast, often operate during standard school hours, making them less flexible but more structured.
For more insights, Rasmussen University offers a comparison between daycare and preschool programs.
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Once you've narrowed down your options, it’s time to start visiting preschools. During your visits, ask the following questions to get a better sense of whether the preschool is the right fit for your family:
Understanding the structure of the day will give you insight into how much time is allocated for learning, play, and rest.
Ask about the number of children per teacher to ensure your child will receive enough individualized attention.
Find out the school's approach to managing behavioral issues. A clear, positive discipline strategy is important.
Confirm the teachers’ education and experience in early childhood education. Consistent, well-qualified teachers make a huge difference in a child's preschool experience.
Regular communication between teachers and parents is essential. Ask how often the school provides updates and whether there are formal parent-teacher conferences.
This list of questions from U.S. News offers a great starting point.
Preschool is where children lay the foundation for their academic and social futures. Understanding what your child will learn in preschool will help you ensure that the program aligns with your expectations.
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At this age, learning how to interact with peers is just as important as academic skills. A strong preschool curriculum will include activities that encourage cooperation, sharing, and taking turns.
Your child will begin to learn the building blocks of literacy and math. Look for programs that introduce numbers, letters, and shapes through play-based activities, such as puzzles and group games.
Children will develop fine motor skills through activities like drawing, cutting with scissors, and playing with blocks. Gross motor skills are improved through outdoor play and physical activities.
Preschool should also provide plenty of opportunities for creative expression. Painting, storytelling, and imaginative play help children explore their creativity and develop emotional intelligence.
For more on what children typically learn in preschool, check out this informative article from Parents.
At Newport Children’s School, our Toddler Program focuses on building early social, emotional, and motor skills through play-based learning tailored for young children. Our Full-Day Preschool Program emphasizes academic readiness, creativity, and social development with a balanced curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten. Learn more about our toddler programs and preschool curriculum.
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Finding a preschool near your home or workplace can significantly reduce stress in your daily routine. Consider preschools that are conveniently located, with easy access to major roads or public transportation.
Additionally, think about how the school’s hours fit into your schedule. Some preschools may offer before- or after-school care to accommodate working parents.
You can use resources like:
When you visit a preschool, it's important to take note of both the environment and the interactions between teachers and children. Here’s what to look for during your visit:
Check out this article from First Steps Holiday for more tips on what to observe during a preschool visit.
One of the most effective ways to research a preschool is to talk to other parents. Ask friends, neighbors, and colleagues about their experiences with local preschools. Online reviews can also be helpful, but remember to take them with a grain of caution.
Forums, social media groups, and local parenting blogs are great places to get candid opinions about preschools in your area. Word-of-mouth recommendations often provide the most reliable insights into a school’s culture and environment.
After doing your research, visiting schools, and asking the right questions, it’s time to make a decision. While all the facts and figures are important, it’s equally important to trust your instincts.
Does the preschool feel like the right fit for your child and your family? Do you feel confident that your child will be safe, happy, and well-cared-for? At the end of the day, a parent’s intuition is a powerful tool when making decisions about early childhood education.
At Newport Children’s School, we pride ourselves on providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for toddlers in Bellevue. With a balanced curriculum that encourages both structured learning and creative play, we help children develop the academic, social, and emotional skills they need to thrive.
Our experienced staff is dedicated to supporting each child’s unique development, and our low student-to-teacher ratio ensures that every child receives the attention they deserve. We invite you to schedule a visit and see why Newport Children’s School is the best preschool for