My little girl is in such a hurry to grow up. The other day, right after we dropped my 3rd grader off at school she told me, “mom, when can I be the one who goes to school, and Troy can be the one who HAS to stay home with you?” That’s when I knew that despite the fact that I teach preschool classes that she attends with me, she is needing an educational program of her own… Away from me.
However, as a mom and a 6 year credentialed preschool teacher, I admit that I tend to be a little picky when it comes to finding a place for my own kids to attend. Most places have catchy name, bright bulletin board and beautiful arts and crafts area, to attract new students, but in my opinion it’s the “little things” that are most telling about the type of learning environment provided. These things, may not seem too important, but are hidden clues to finding the right environment for your child.
1- Consistent Routine: routines are so helpful to young children. They help children to know what to expect day to day, making them feel more secure. I think a consistent routine also demonstrates that the school is organized and has a plan for each day.
2- Asks about food allergies: Even though my daughter doesn’t have food allergies, I like to hear a school ask this specific question, without me bringing it up. To me, that simple step shows that a school takes the health and safety of their students, seriously.
3- “Less Than Perfect” Art Projects: at first glance, a wall of Pinterest-perfect art projects may seem like an indicator of a good school, however I tend to see it quite the opposite way. For young children, arts and craft time should be more about the process of creating rather than the final product. It should be a time when kids are given the freedom to use the supplies and create. To me, “less than perfect” art projects show that the children were given the space to do that.
4. Free time- On the front of one of my text books, while I was going to school to become a preschool teacher it said in bold words ” Play is the work of a preschooler.” For young children, one of the most important times of the day is “free time”. It’s a great time for a child to learn how to use imagination, social skills and to just enjoy being a kid. While a school may boast of it’s “circle time” and “children’s viola lessons”, be sure that ample time is also given for playing.
5. Home communication- As a parent I love to know what my child is learning at school. It helps me to ask engaging questions that will get her talking about her day. When visiting a school, I like to ask about parent boards or newsletters and how often they are updated.
In my area there are a few local programs that I am excited to check out for my daughter. One of these is La Petite Academy. One of the things that I love about La Petite Academy, is that they have a new way of learning that encourages the joys of childhood to be experienced while strong social and educational foundations are being formed. They help children learn how much fun learning can be. To learn more about La Petite Academy be sure to visit their website today to find a location near you, and schedule a tour today. Another program worth checking out is Montessori (I’ve heard great things) – depending on which schools your area offers.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Learning Care Group. The opinions and text are all mine.
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