How to Choose the Right Pre-K

Choosing the right Pre-K program is one of the first big steps in your child’s educational path. While it marks the beginning of a marvelous and exciting journey, it can be a source of stress and anxiety. 

Finding a safe, nurturing environment where your child can grow, explore, and build a strong foundation for the future is such an important part of making both you and your child feel ready for the transition to school. 

Here we will go through some key things to consider as you explore your options, and are deciding on what the best is for your child and your family. 

1. Consider the Environment

Young children learn best when they can play, be creative, and have hands-on experiences. Physical learning is often the best way for young children to remember the most important things they learn. 

With that in mind, look for classrooms that feel safe, welcoming, and organized. Not just cute, but functional. Ask yourself: 

• Are the children engaged and happy?

• Do the teachers seem patient and involved?

• Is there space for both movement and quiet time? 

• Are there physical learning tools available?

A great Pre-K should have the same feeling as home for your child. A place where they feel comfortable being themselves and exploring what’s around them. 

2. Check for a Strong Curriculum

A quality Pre-K program introduces early academics, but there needs to be more than that. Look for a curriculum that also supports:

• Social and emotional development

• Fine and gross motor skills

• Language and early literacy

• Problem-solving and independent thinking

There are other things outside of your child's ability to recite the ABCs and 123s that are vital to their growth and development. A Pre-K curriculum that nurtures a wide range of skills will help your child’s academic growth in the coming years. 

3. Get to Know the Teachers

Teachers are a huge part of your child’s life from this point on. Pre-K teachers are vital in the development of your child’s speech, education, social, emotional, and so many other skills. It’s important that you look for trained, caring educators who understand child development and love working with kids. 

Some important things to ask administrators and educators are:

• What is the teacher-to-child ratio?

• How do teachers handle big emotions or conflicts?

• What does a typical day look like? 

Meeting the staff in person gives you the ability to feel out the culture of the program and the environment they promote. Evaluate whether or not their answers to those types of questions are acceptable for you and your child's needs. 

4. Ask about Safety and Communication

Parents being aware and concerned about the safety of their children is valid. Therefore, make sure you ask questions to ease your mind about safety and security protocols at each school.

• How are children signed in and out?

• How do you handle allergies and health needs?

• How will I be updated about my child’s progress? 

Open communication is key to trust. Make sure that the program has clear safety procedures, clean facilities, and regular communication with families. If the answers aren’t meeting your expectations or standards, it’s okay to communicate that or look for other options. 

5. Look for Alignment with Your Values

Every family is different, and every school is different. Some parents are looking for faith-based education, while others prioritize play-based learning or nature exploration. 

Think about:

• What do I want my child to learn beyond academics? 

• Do I want faith to be a part of the classroom? 

• Will my child feel seen and supported here? 

Choosing a Pre-K that aligns with your values and is consistent with the values you maintain at home helps your child feel seen, secure, and understood. 

6. Trust Your Gut.

At the end of the day, your instincts matter. If a program checks all the boxes, but doesn’t feel quite right, it’s okay to keep looking. Sometimes you’ll just know, this is the place.

Your child deserves to be in a place where they can be curious, confident, and cared for. And so do you. 

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Pre-K is a big, stressful decision, but you don’t have to do it alone. Tour schools, ask questions, and take your time. Make a list of your boundaries, expectations, and values, and don’t settle for something less. You will find something that feels right. 

At Northside, we’re honored to partner with families and ensure they feel confident in their decision. If you’re curious about our early childhood environments, we’d love to connect, answer your questions, and show you what sets us apart. 

Connect with us today to book your personalized tour of our Pre-K facility and meet our staff!