My challenge for you in the new year is to invest some time and to do your homework in finding out about your options before you place your child on a waiting list for a potential school or daycare. Most schools offer an opportunity to visit classrooms, meet teachers, and to spend a bit of time in the space your child will call home for several hours or several days week. Preschool is not just preschool, school is not just school, and the programs offered are as varied as the personalities of the children that attend them. Don't settle and don't be afraid to ask questions... here are some topics to get you started:
· Learning & Teaching (How will my child be taught and what will they be learning?)
· How will this school instill the love of learning in my child and allow him/her to thrive?
· Does the school have an open door policy where I am welcome to drop in and observe my child during school hours?
· Observe and ask questions about how bullying is handled (is kindness & respect for other children, teachers & parents taught/handled in house)
· How is progress reported/monitored and how often are the parent/teacher conferences?
· How is discipline is handled and communicated with me and my child?
· Privacy Policies and the professionalism of teachers/staff regarding your child and what happens in the classroom as well as beyond its doors.
· Tuition Rates (if any)
· Requirements for additional Volunteer Hours through committee work & fundraising,
