Essential Questions to Ask When Touring a Preschool in the U.S.

Choosing the right preschool is one of the most important decisions for your child’s early education. A preschool tour allows parents to evaluate the environment, curriculum, and staff to ensure it’s the right fit. To make the most of your visit, here’s a comprehensive list of essential questions to ask during your preschool tour.

1. General Information About the Preschool

✔ What is your school’s educational philosophy? (Montessori, play-based, Reggio Emilia, academic, etc.) ✔ What are the class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios? ✔ What are the school’s hours of operation? ✔ Is part-time or full-time enrollment available? ✔ What is the policy for late pick-ups or early drop-offs? ✔ Is the preschool licensed and accredited? (Check for NAEYC accreditation or state licensing.)

2. Curriculum and Learning Approach

✔ What is the daily schedule like? ✔ How is learning structured—free play vs. structured activities? ✔ How do you support social and emotional development? ✔ What subjects are covered, and how are they taught? (Literacy, math, science, art, music, etc.) ✔ Are there foreign language or cultural programs? ✔ How do you handle individualized learning and different developmental levels?

3. Teacher Qualifications and Staff

✔ What are the qualifications and experience of the teachers? ✔ What ongoing training do teachers receive? ✔ What is the school’s approach to discipline and conflict resolution? ✔ How does the staff handle behavioral challenges? ✔ Are background checks and first-aid training required for all staff? ✔ How do teachers communicate with parents about a child’s progress?

4. Health, Safety, and Cleanliness

✔ What are the security measures for drop-off and pick-up? ✔ What is the protocol for handling illnesses and injuries? ✔ How often are toys and surfaces cleaned? ✔ What is the school’s vaccination policy? ✔ What steps are taken for food allergies and dietary restrictions? ✔ Is there an emergency plan in case of fire, natural disasters, or lockdowns?

5. Meals, Snacks, and Nap Time

✔ Are meals and snacks provided, or do parents need to pack them? ✔ If provided, what types of food are served? (Check for organic, healthy options.) ✔ How do you accommodate children with dietary restrictions or allergies? ✔ What is the nap time schedule, and where do children rest? ✔ Are blankets and pillows provided, or should parents bring their own?

6. Outdoor Play and Extracurricular Activities

✔ How much outdoor playtime do children get each day? ✔ What kind of outdoor or indoor play equipment is available? ✔ Are there field trips or special activities? ✔ Are there extracurricular programs like music, dance, or sports? ✔ Do children have free play or guided play activities?

7. Tuition, Fees, and Enrollment Process

✔ What are the tuition fees, and what’s included? ✔ Are there additional fees for supplies, field trips, or extracurricular activities? ✔ Is financial aid or a sibling discount available? ✔ What is the school’s withdrawal or refund policy? ✔ What documents are required for enrollment? ✔ How long is the waiting list, and what is the enrollment process?

8. Parent Involvement and Communication

✔ How do parents receive updates about their child’s progress? (Daily reports, apps, newsletters, meetings?) ✔ Are parents allowed to visit during the day? ✔ What opportunities are there for parent involvement? (Volunteering, PTA, special events.) ✔ Are there parent-teacher conferences, and how often are they scheduled? ✔ How are conflicts between parents and teachers handled?

Final Thoughts

A preschool tour is the perfect opportunity to assess whether the environment meets your child’s learning and development needs. By asking these questions, you can make an informed decision and choose the best preschool for your child’s future.

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By preparing with these key questions, you can confidently evaluate any preschool and find the best fit for your child’s learning journey!

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