Preschool shopping can be overwhelming. Sometimes its based on price, other times on location, or maybe its the feel you get when you walk into the space. Either way, here are some things we look for when choosing a preschool:

• What does the classroom look like? A home-like environment that is comfortable, welcoming and feels happy.

• What about the teacher? A teacher should be loving, set boundaries, get down to your child's level (kneels), speak to your child with respect, and has an understanding of child development.

• What is the curriculum? It should be play-based, that means no worksheets or flashcards, just genuine play, with learning sprinkled into the play (See our upcoming podcast on this topic!).

• What is the student to teacher ratio, or how many kids are in the class with the teacher? The lower the better! That means more one-on-one time with your child. 

• What kind of snacks or meals? Make sure these align with your habits. We want to make sure your kids are getting protein for their brains, not a bunch of sugary snacks, so it's important to ask. 

• What does the outdoor space look like? Should be inviting, lots of room to play AND they should be outdoors for at least 1 hour in the morning and 1 hour in the afternoon, at a minimum.

• What qualifications does the Director have? They should have at least an AA in Child Development/Early Childhood Education, a is BA preferred. Its ok to ask about this!

So now that you have picked a school, don't forget you need a drop off routine to help your little one feel comfortable during this transition. I recommend The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn — read them the book multiple times before the first drop off, then when you drop them off remind them of the book, give them a kiss and a hug, say good bye and that you will see them after their lunch (or whatever activity they have before you pick them up) and then leave. Please, don't stay, it makes it harder for your child, once you say bye, you must leave. Let the teacher help to soothe your child, this is what they are good at! You can make this more special by adding things, maybe reading them a book in the classroom before you leave, or waving at the window, whatever feels best for you and your little and then stick to it. This routine will help them feel secure and safe.  Good luck Parents! This is ALWAYS harder for you then it is for them!