Tips on Interviewing Preschools

If you are seeking a preschool here are some questions to consider:

Basic info

• Is the facility licensed? Are you accredited?

• When did you last go through the accreditation process?

• How are you organized (one room, multiple rooms, etc.)?

• What is the admissions policy?

• What are the key admissions deadlines?

• When are admissions decisions made and communicated?

• What’s the tuition and fee structure? Do you offer sibling discounts?

• Are there any additional costs? (Enrichment Programs, Field Trips, etc.)?

• Do you provide meals or snacks?

• What is the pickup and drop off process?

• Is toilet training required?

• What’s your sick policy?

• Do you offer backup care when the school is closed?

• How do you handle allergies and dietary restrictions?

• How do you communicate with parents?

• What are your emergency protocols?

• How much parent involvement is expected or encouraged?

• For co-op programs, what are the required time commitments? Who can fulfill the commitment? Is there a buy-out option?

Curriculum

• What is your school’s philosophy?

• Do you follow a specific curriculum?

• How do you balance play and structured learning?

• What is a typical daily schedule like?

• Do you offer any additional enrichment programs?

• What language(s) do you teach?

• Do you always stay on campus or do you go on field trips?

• What is the mix of indoor vs. outdoor play?

• How do you prepare children for kindergarten?

• How are classes organized?

• What are your student to teacher ratios?

• How long have your current teachers and staff been here?

• How do you retain teachers?

• How do you handle teacher turnover?

• What is your philosophy around discipline?

• How do you handle conflicts between children?

• What happens if my child has separation anxiety?

• How do you handle kids who refuse naps?

• What does your application and enrollment process look like? How many new spots are typically available per year?

Questions about the preschool fair? Please contact us.