It's not a secret that early education is an essential part of placing children on the path to eventual happiness and success. Actually, a study by The Perry Preschool Project showed that preschool graduates are more likely to complete high school, commit less crimes, and hold better jobs. Preschool gives youngsters the chance to learn important lessons, socialize with others, and grow in several different ways. For most parents, the question isn't if they should sign their child up for preschool. It's which is the best preschool out of all their available options?
Unless you reside in a tiny city, you probably have a lot of preschool choices. Some are in the public school system, while others are charter schools with unique curriculum. Some have only been in operation for a few years, while others have been around for decades. Selecting the right preschool can be a rough decision for all parents. Here are three effective strategies that can help make this choice much easier:
Ask Around
Talking to friends and family who have been through this process already is one of the best things that you can do. These individuals will have valuable insight into the program that they used (and maybe those that they didn't. After a few conservations, you will have a better idea of the schools you want to look into.
Rating Websites
Google "top-rated preschools in (your area)" and you'll likely find two types of results: brick-and-mortar preschools and review websites. These websites will include rankings and reviews for a number of different preschools in your area. This doesn't mean you should immediately choose the #1 pre-K school. But it should help you get closer to the right choice.
Visit Preschools
Before you finalize your decision, visiting a few of your favorite preschools is a must. This will give you the chance to meet with the teachers, ask questions, look at classrooms, and see if it meets your criteria. First, call to make sure you visit during the right time. Following these basic steps will ideally lead you to selecting the best preschool for your child to receive his/her early education. child care centers clearfield ut