Preschool sets the perfect foundation for children before school starts. However, many parents can be under the impression that choosing a preschool is one of the most difficult decisions ever. The truth is, as long as you know what you want from your child’s preschool experience, the process of choosing a preschool shouldn’t have to be stressful at all.
If you don’t know where to start deciding what you want from a preschool, take a look below. Here are some top tips on how to choose a preschool that suits you and your little one.
1. Make a Priority List
Before you start looking at preschools or nurseries, it’s important to prioritize what’s important to you. Do you need a school near your home, or would it make more sense to be near your workplace? Do you want your child to go to preschool in the mornings, afternoons, or all day?
Are you eligible for any preschool funding from the government or grants? If so, you’ll need to find a preschool registered with these programmes. Think about what makes sense for your daily routines and what schools will best suit your average week.
2. Visit a Preschool
You’ll be able to tell a lot about a preschool when you schedule an appointment to visit. Is the staff warm and welcoming? Does the environment look safe and secure?
Do the children at the nursery look happy and settled? In just a short visit, you’ll be able to see how the nursery works in action and get a feel for whether you think your little one will be comfortable there.
It’s a great opportunity to sit down with the staff and ask any questions you may have. Find out how much of a say parents have in their child’s care and talk to other parents if you can.
3. Get the Details
Preschoolers are still learning major life skills. Depending on your child’s age, he may still be working on eating solid foods, toilet training, and communication. The preschool staff will need to work with you to ensure all of these milestones are met.
Finding out details like training methods, how the nursery promotes good behaviour and deals with bad behaviour will ensure you’re all on the same page.
4. Personal Development
Preschool settings and staff are in an ideal position to promote personal development in children before they start attending school. By the age of three, schools like children to be able to count to ten, identify colours, sit quietly for a short period of time, among other things.
Allowing your child to attend a preschool will mean they have everything in their foundation to give them a head start for school. It can also encourage social interaction and social etiquette with children of a similar age.
Ask about the preschool curriculum at your chosen nursery and discuss the UK early years framework. If you want your child to develop as well as possible, you’ll need a preschool that puts learning at the heart of everything.
5. Ask Around
Recommendations from other parents are invaluable. Asking advice from parents who have been in your shoes before will lead you to the best schools. You can also search for reviews online- you can bet if there’s a bad review about a preschool, you’ll find it.
It’s also important to remember that what works for one family may not always work for another. When talking to parents, remember your priorities and ask about what applies to you and your family.
6. What Does It Cost?
There should be no hidden costs when it comes to paying for your child’s preschool. Ask about all the costs during your visit and get a written copy of the costs to take with you. Nursery fees are usually based on each session, each week, or each month.
If your child is over the age of three, you may be entitled to thirty hours of free care a week if you’re a working parent. If you don’t work, you may still be able to claim up to fifteen hours.
It’s also important to ask about the cost of snacks, meals, and activities or trips. You may find that you need to pay extras each week if you want your child to be included in group activities.
Book Your Place
When you find the perfect preschool for your needs, it’s important to book a spot for your child as soon as possible. Many preschools will be limited in how many children they can take, and spaces fill up quickly. At Happy Bunnies in Gillingham, we pride ourselves on providing the best level of care for your children, which is why we’re the most sought-after school in the area.
Our exceptional childcare and expert staff will ensure your child reaches their full potential. Why not take a look at all of the recommendations from parents on our website? The nursery even has themed rooms to inspire young minds, like the jungle-themed room and sea-themed room.
How to Choose a Preschool: The Best for Your Child
Every parent wants the best for their child. That’s often why choosing a preschool can seem like such a tough decision. If you’re wondering how to choose a preschool that’s ideal for your child now and in the future, the best thing you can do is go with your instinct.
No one will ever know your child as well as you do, so take your time in making your choice. If you have any queries about your child joining Happy Bunnies nursery, we’re always happy to help. Take a browse through our website and contact us today.
