California’s parenting website

There are three main things to consider when searching for the best preschool for your child: teachers, curriculum, and environment. Here are some questions to ask and things to look for when interviewing preschools:

• How long have the teachers worked at the school?

• Have the teachers ever worked with children who have disabilities?

• How do the teachers interact with the children?

• Are the teachers having conversations with the children in their class?

• Are the teachers actively engaged with the children?

• How do the teachers communicate with parents? What are the expectations for parents?

• What are the rules for discipline and behavior?

• Is there a specific curriculum or method (e.g. Montessori) the school uses? If so, have them explain it to you.

• Are there a variety of activities offered to the children, from solving puzzles to playing outside?

• Can the teacher tell you not only what the class is doing, but also why they’re doing it?

• Do they offer services or support for children with disabilities?

• Will the preschool support children with potty training? What is the school’s policy on potty training?

• Does the school meet state regulations for teacher-to-child ratios? In general, there should be one teacher for every 10 children.

• Are the children reading books?

• What does the physical activity and outdoor time look like daily?

• Are the school and facilities accessible for children with disabilities?

• Does the classroom have plenty of books and other educational toys, such as blocks and puzzles?

• Do they provide snack, breakfast or lunch?

• Do the children in the classroom seem engaged in activities?

• Can parents visit the classroom at any time during the day?

• Is the school clean?