It’s hard to imagine sending your baby to daycare or preschool for the first time. Deciding where to go is a big decision. What type of environment will be best for them? How will they deal with the separation—and how will you? Here, experts share advice on how to find your child’s happy place.
DAYCARE VS. PRESCHOOL
For starters, it’s important to know what type of setting you prefer for your child. Daycare can start for kids as young as 6 weeks old, while a traditional preschool setting is for 3- to 5-year-olds. Daycare is typically a full-day, but many preschools are now extending their hours, too. Both offer learning and lots of playtime amid a varied, structured schedule, so that kids can socialize and interact with one another.
Nicole Maupai, regional director for Apple Montessori Schools, says you need to first decide which care approach matches your parenting style. For example, Montessori promotes independence and the freedom for preschoolers to choose their own activities. Think about if you need part- or full-time care, and if your child may have issues with separation. Then, decide how much structure you’d like in your child’s environment.
“Play allows children to express creativity, use their imagination, facilitate language development, support social-emotional development, increase concentration, and more,” Maupai says. “Children can still play with materials that also teach academic concepts, but it is important that they are allowed to have free play as well.”
ASK QUESTIONS
Ask each school about what’s important to you, says Lori Burger, regional marketing manager for Primrose Schools. “Make a wishlist of the ideal features, then be sure to ask each school for a clear explanation of everything it provides, as well as the fees. Having all the facts and costs upfront will help parents decide which option is the best fit for their family,” she says.
What is the curriculum? Is it unstructured playtime, or is there an early learning approach? Ask for research about how kids in their program learn in the first five years and according to the state’s early learning standards.
Maupai says to ask for a copy of the daily schedule. Ask about the qualifications of the teachers on staff, and how they approach new concepts. Make sure to check their accreditation status.
Don’t skimp on security questions. Ask if the doors stay locked, what the emergency procedures are and how the school communicates these things with parents.
Ask who is available to speak with during dropoff or pickup in case there’s an issue, and how the center communicates progress or concerns. You can also ask about opportunities and events for you to get involved.
Burger says to ask upfront about hours of operation, any enrichment activities they offer, and if they provide well-balanced meals and snacks. Don’t forget to ask about naptime, and if your child needs to be potty trained. You can also ask if there’s anything you can take from the school to help reinforce learning at home.
You should also consider the distance of the center from whoever may be picking up the child after hours, especially if grandparents are helping out.
PLAN A VISIT
Take your child with you and have a meet-and-greet with the director and staff. The environment should inspire your kids.
Burger said when visiting a center, watch how the kids and caretakers are interacting, and get a sense of the atmosphere of the classroom. Does it feel warm, loving and secure? Are the kids—and teachers—genuinely happy? Are there lots of smiles? Is there a lot of natural light? As a parent, what’s your gut feeling inside the rooms?
“First impressions are important,” says Burger. “Many parents can tell if a school is right for their family based on how they and their child are greeted, how the children attending are interacting and how their questions are answered by the teacher or school director. Parents should also evaluate the condition and cleanliness of the facility and look more closely to ensure adults are interacting with children and each other in appropriate, positive ways.”
START YOUR RESEARCH NOW
It’s never too early to think about where you may send your child, so the sooner you start your research, the better. Maupai said many programs fill up a few months out, so decide early on about your child’s home away from home.
“Starting the research process as soon as families are expecting helps the search feel less rushed and overwhelming,” says Burger. “The arrival of a new baby brings a flood of emotions, and having the facts of each option beforehand can help.”
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