Feature/General
The A-Z's of Choosing a Preschool
By Amy Heesacker
January/February 2006

Javi (age 4) works on puzzles in his classroom at Live Oak Morning School

We recently moved to Athens from out of state. One of the most anxiety provoking parts of the move for me was locating a new preschool for our 4 year old son, Javi. I wanted our chosen preschool to give him an appreciation for what school is like and help him to develop a positive attitude toward school. In addition, I wanted his last year before "big boy school" to be gentle, nurturing and FUN! I had quite a daunting task ahead of me; however, I was relieved to discover that Athens offers a wide variety of quality preschools.

Before you venture out to find the right preschool for your child it is worthwhile to spend some time considering your needs, wishes and goals. Knowing what you want and require with regard to weekly schedule (e.g., drop in, part time, full time) and costs are only two of many considerations in making your ultimate preschool selection. What follows is a "PRESCHOOL" checklist of sorts, based on both online research and some first hand experiences, to help you evaluate schools and find the best fit for your child. Keep in mind that preschools have limited spaces available and wait lists in Athens are not uncommon, so plan ahead and start your search early.

Philosophy/Policies
Preschools often describe their philosophies as curriculum based (i.e., academic skills) or play based (i.e., uninterrupted blocks of play) in focus. There are also a number of more specific preschool philosophies, including Montessori, Waldorf, Projects, Community/Religious, Cooperative, and Reggio Emilia (see www.scholastic.com for a brief description of each of these). Understand the philosophy of the preschool you choose as well as the policies that emerge from it (e.g. discipline, parent involvement).

Ratio/Room
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) recommends that preschool classrooms have a ratio of 1:10 (i.e., 2 teachers in a classroom of 20 children). It is also important to take a look at the layout of the preschool room. Are there distinct areas for different activities, and is the room a safe and inviting place?

Education
Investigate the educational background of the teachers. Some teachers may have degrees in childhood education while others may have specialized training in the school's specific teaching methodology. The teachers should be skilled at working with a preschool age group. It can also be helpful to know the stability (rate of turnover) of the staff at the school.

Schedule
Preschool schedules may include individual activities (self directed or teacher guided), group activities (e.g., circle time), hands on activities/projects, outdoor play, snack time, rest/nap period, chapel, etc. Investigate how much time is devoted to each activity on a daily or weekly basis.

Creativity
Some schools may provide children with art materials and opportunities to explore them in their own ways (i.e., process focus) while others may provide models and directions for children to follow (i.e., product focus). Learn the philosophy of your child's potential school and consider your goals for your child's preschool experience.

History
Parents who have had their children enrolled in a program are valuable resources when making your preschool selection. Ask several parents, particularly those who share your values and goals, about their specific experiences with the school, classroom and teachers.

Observe
Take the time to observe both the teachers and the students in the classroom. Do the teachers seem engaged in the process (i.e., energetic and focused) and do they use positive discipline techniques (e.g., focusing on what to DO rather than on what NOT to do)? Do the children seem happy, comfortable and interested? If possible bring your child along to school visits so that you can observe how the teachers interact with him/her (e.g., with warmth and respect).

Orientation period
Particularly if this is your child's first school experience, it can ease the transition to have an orientation period. For example, children may be allowed to come for less than a full day and their parents may be encouraged to come with them.

Listen to your gut!
Ultimately, this is the strongest indicator of whether or not you have found a good fit. Does the school feel comfortable and "right" to you? If the answer is yes B Congratulations! You've found your child's preschool!

Amy Heesacker holds a doctoral degree in Counseling and Developmental Psychology. She is a part- time assistant professor at the University of Georgia and lives in Athens with her husband and their children, Javi (4) and Isa (1).

Helpful web sites:

Signs of a great preschool
http://www.naeyc.org/resources/eyly/1996/01.htm

What is a quality preschool program?
http://www.parentingweb.com/dev_edu/qualitypresch.htm

General information about Georgia's Pre-K program
http://www.decal.state.ga.us/PreK/PreKMain.aspx

Preschool/Pre-K Locator - searchable list of facilities licensed by Bright from the Start (includes information about ages served, services provided and inspection reports)
http://www.sitesearch.decal.state.ga.us/georgiadecal/public/providersearch.aspx