Key Takeaways

• You should pay attention to the environment and staff interaction. Is it clean, safe, and warm for your child?
• Come armed with a list of must-know questions about curriculum, safety, teacher qualifications, and inclusivity to get a really good sense of each preschool’s philosophy.
• Be particularly attuned to how teachers encourage emotional development, resolve conflicts, and nurture independence. These aspects are vitally important for your child’s well-being and growth.
• Watch for red flags too, like rude staff, evasive answers, or a disruptive classroom. These can signal problems.
• Then compare your notes and impressions after each visit. Compare notes with your family or trusted advisors and include your child in the process to find the best match.
• Trust your gut and give preference to what fits your family’s priorities with your checklist in hand as you make the ultimate decision for your little one’s early years.

How do you know what to ask on a preschool tour? It’s all about addressing what’s important for your child – their safety, growth, and comfort. When choosing a preschool, you’re going to want definitive responses regarding schedule, teacher qualifications, class size, security measures, and philosophy. You’ll want to find out information regarding meal options, nap times, how schools manage illness, methods of communication with parents, and special needs support. These questions assist you in determining if the preschool aligns with your objectives and your child’s requirements. Knowing what questions to ask provides you with actual specifics, not just brochures or web pages. In the following sections, you’ll receive each question along with context and sample answers.

Observe Before You Ask

Going on a school tour without your child allows you to focus on finding the right preschool for your family. You can glimpse more of their day-to-day activities, the physical arrangement of the preschool classroom, and the teaching approach. This provides you with a genuine feel for the teachers and kids, as observation first allows you to notice important details, from sanitation to the security of play areas. It helps you determine whether the school’s values align with your priorities before composing questions. Search for indications of order, verify the appropriateness of playthings and educational equipment for preschoolers, and observe how personnel interact with children, gathering valuable insights before you even ask.

The Environment

Familiarize yourself with the preschool classroom setup. You want to see uncovered walking paths, decluttered zones, and areas that allow kids to roam freely. Look for tables and chairs that small kids can use, rather than just miniaturized adult sets. Check if learning zones are created, such as a silent reading nook or an arts and crafts corner, as these territories indicate to the school that you appreciate a variety of play and learning experiences.

Notice if they have children’s projects or art posted around. This can enhance their pride and ownership. Exhibits must include a variety of work, not simply pristine examples. It indicates to the staff that you appreciate every child’s attempt, not just the top ones.

Test all doors and windows. They should be secure, with locks out of children’s reach, and exits must lead to safe enclosed areas. The right preschool should have an efficient check-in/check-out system. Inquire whether an adult is monitoring these entrances at all times.

Fresh air and sunlight are crucial for a healthy learning environment. Classrooms shouldn’t be stuffy or dark. Windows that open provide fresh air, and proper lighting assists with mood and alertness, contributing to a positive preschool program.

The Interactions

Observe how the teachers interact with the preschoolers. Are they down at child-level, making eye contact? They should speak in a soothing, warm tone and lead kids through activities rather than simply commanding them. During playtime, they should actively participate instead of merely spectating.

Pay attention to how the kids deal with each other in the preschool classroom. Look for cooperation, generosity, and good-natured banter. While conflict is natural, staff must intervene and assist kids in resolving issues, rather than just chastising or overlooking them.

Take note of the language employees use. Inspirational phrases and affirmations are vital in a quality childcare program. You want to hear more phrases like ‘Wow, look what you did!’ and ‘Can you teach me how?’ instead of negative remarks.

Staff should be quick to observe a child in need of assistance, solace, or response. Are they observant and courteous? Respect for each child's specific needs is reflected in their responsiveness.

The Children

Kids should appear occupied and engaged, not tedious or adrift. Perhaps they’re painting, building, or playing outside. Kids should skip seamlessly from activity to activity, not appear baffled or excluded.

Be on the lookout for happy signs. Smiles, laughs, and relaxed posture indicate children are safe. If you observe tears or upset, staff should respond with compassion and soothe.

Check out how kids transition between activities. Well-planned, smooth transitions make kids feel safe. Employees may use music or soft reminders to direct transitions.

Diversity counts. See if the girls and boys from all backgrounds play and work alongside one another. This demonstrates the school appreciates diversity and educates respect.

The 10 Essential Preschool Tour Questions

Discovering the right preschool goes beyond just selecting a school near your house. You want a preschool program where your child flourishes — feels safe, grows, and learns. Knowing what to ask during daycare tours helps you determine if a preschool is the perfect place for your values and your child’s specific needs. Use these ten questions as a guide on your next school tour.

• How is the school’s philosophy reflected in everyday practice?
• What are the qualifications and backgrounds of the teachers?
• In what ways does the staff nurture children’s social and emotional development?
• What curriculum or learning approach does the preschool use?
• What health and safety protocols do you have?
• How does the school encourage communication and partnership with parents?
• What would a typical day be like for my child?
• How is diversity and inclusivity handled at the preschool?
• Are there unique programs or extra activities available?
• What are the tuition rates, and do they have flexible payment options?

1. Philosophy In Practice?

When touring preschools, it's essential to have the preschool explain how their philosophy, whether Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or play-based, is applied in the preschool classroom. You want specific examples, such as activities that demonstrate their philosophies, like how preschoolers are encouraged to explore or how teachers help direct learning. See how the school balances structured activities with free play, which are both important for your child’s development. Inquire about how the curriculum is designed to support different preschoolers, ensuring it aligns with your family’s values of creativity, independence, or collaboration.

2. Teacher Support?

The teacher-to-child ratio is crucial in a preschool classroom. For three-year-olds, a one-to-six ratio ensures that preschoolers receive more attention and support. Verify teacher credentials and training, particularly if your child has specific needs. Inquire about professional development, as schools committed to training keep teachers current and are likely to provide a quality childcare checklist for parents.

3. Emotional Guidance?

Hard social and emotional support molds your child’s future learning in the right preschool environment. Schools should have transparent means of cultivating empathy and resilience, so inquire how teachers in the preschool classroom react to conflict or challenging behaviors. Find evidence that every preschooler, no matter his or her background, is made to feel welcome and supported.

4. Learning Approach?

Find out if the curriculum meets local or global early childhood education guidelines. What types of activities help preschoolers solve problems or build language skills? Is play woven into every lesson, or is there more focus on academics? Ask how teachers measure progress and share important school information with families.

5. Child Safety?

Safety is a top priority when selecting the right preschool. Inquire about hygiene practices, safe entry protocols, and first aid-trained staff to ensure a secure preschool classroom environment for your preschooler.

6. Parent Partnership?

Inquire how you will be kept in the loop through daily reports, emails, or meetings regarding your preschooler’s progress. They may have family events or opportunities to participate in the preschool classroom. Ask how staff support families as kids begin or transition to new preschool programs.

7. Daily Rhythm?

The schedule needs to work with your kid’s energy and your family’s lifestyle needs. Is there time for play as well as learning in the preschool classroom? Do they serve nutritious food or snacks as part of their childcare programs? Experience outside play every day to facilitate growth.

8. Inclusivity And Diversity?

A good preschool embraces all children, promoting early childhood education. Inquire about cultural celebrations and how varied backgrounds are honored, ensuring the right preschool addresses the developmental needs of all preschoolers.

9. Unique Program Features?

Some preschools, including the perfect preschool for your family, even offer music, art, or language classes. Inquire about special events or collaborations with local organizations, and consider summer programs or after-hours care that can aid working families.

10. Tuition And Fees?

Determine what preschool tuition includes—meals, supplies, or excursions. Do you offer sibling discounts? Do you accept monthly payments or assist if needed? Just verify that the price corresponds to the quality childcare checklist and the level of services provided.

The Unspoken Curriculum

This unspoken curriculum informs how your child experiences school and learning in countless ways that you can’t find in any lesson plan. This code of unspoken rules and quiet norms inhabits every preschool classroom and crafts student behavior, speech, and interpersonal dynamics. It shapes the way kids make friends, handle disappointment, and learn to be heard. This unspoken curriculum differs from preschool to preschool, driven by culture, teacher philosophies, and the kids themselves. If you want your child to excel not only in school but in life, don’t just follow the official curriculum; follow what’s silently taught in the perfect preschool daily.

Emotional Climate

Observe how staff welcome kids at drop-off in the preschool classroom. Do they kneel to make eye contact with a child or use soothing language to calm an irate child? The implicit curriculum of the day-to-day ethos set by staff informs you whether emotional development counts in this place and how much kids feel visible and secure. An inclusive culture makes kids think they fit in, regardless of their background.

Inquire of the staff how they assist children in developing resilience. If a child is discouraged, does the teacher provide language that encourages perseverance, or is it all about looking beyond the failure? Seek out curricula that teach coping skills, such as naming feelings or deep breathing, as part of the preschool program.

The best preschools weave emotional intelligence into everyday life. They leverage stories, music, or easy group games to get kids to exercise emotional sharing and empathy. Your child should hear that all feelings are okay and that talking about them is key.

Inquire whether the school provides safe spaces or rituals for feeling expression. For instance, some of mine had “calm corners” or utilized emotion charts where kids could express how they are feeling without words. This tells kids their feelings count.

Conflict Resolution

Inquire about how staff instruct kids to problem-solve independently. Is it through directed discussions, or do they employ role play and narratives that allow kids to envision alternative solutions to a challenge? Problem-solving skills require practice, not just words.

Inquire about how conflicts are handled. Do staff intervene and adjust things, or do they encourage children to discuss with each other? You want a space where kids receive assistance learning how to listen, speak up, and work things out as a team.

Observe how adults communicate well. Staff should exemplify calm voices, describe their own emotions, and listen with attention. Kids are going to emulate what they observe.

See how the school helps kids learn empathy as well. Do staff discuss feelings in groups? Do they complement kindness? Kids need plenty of opportunities to develop empathy for their peers, particularly those from different backgrounds.

Fostering Independence

Inquire how kids acquire self-help skills at home. Do they dress themselves, wash their own hands, or serve their own snacks? These steps develop trust and pride.

See if kids can choose their day. Do you have open-ended play centers or stations where kids choose what they want to do? Choice makes kids into curious, ingenious thinkers.

Inquire about the school’s equilibrium between liberty and direction. Will educators intervene immediately, or will they hold back until kids have attempted to figure things out on their own? The right balance allows kids to push themselves but still feel secure.

Inquire whether preschool prepares kids for what comes next. Other schools establish connections with elementary schools, rely on established rituals, or instruct students in skills such as standing in lines and obeying collective directions. This makes kids more comfortable with the transition down the line.

Red Flags To Notice

During your preschool tour, it's crucial to look for red flags that could affect your preschooler's safety, development, and happiness. Pay attention to the preschool classroom environment and engage with staff to ensure it meets your child's specific needs.

• Negative interactions between staff and children
• Vague or evasive responses to your questions
• An environment that feels too strict or boring
• Overly scheduled days with no room for free play
• Too much screen time for young children
• No focus on outdoor activities
• Teacher-to-child ratios higher than one to six for three-year-olds
• Poor or unclear updates about your child’s day
• No clear plan for teaching empathy or social skills
• Meal plans that are unhealthy or never change
• Ambiguous rules or what comes across as harsh punishments

Staff Demeanor

Staff attitude forms the entire preschool experience. If teachers seem tired, disinterested, or rushed, this can be a sign of high turnover or low morale. You want to see teachers who demonstrate they care about their students. A genuine educator is reflected in a warm smile, kneeling to greet kids, or a gentle tone. When staff chat with each other, observe if they collaborate or appear irritated. If you find adults dismissing unhappy kids or your inquiries, that’s a red flag.

You want staff who answer to parents and kids promptly and courteously. A good preschool appreciates explicit, frequent communication about your child. If you feel dismissed or your questions go unanswered, think about how this would play out day to day. Preschool-obsessed staff will talk about empathy, play, and skill-building unbidden.

Classroom Chaos

The preschool classroom environment is crucial for effective learning. A room that resembles a zoo, with kids wandering, signals poor classroom management. While every preschooler may be loud at times, if teachers cannot guide groups calmly from one activity to another, learning can deteriorate. Pay attention to how smoothly transitions, such as moving from story time to outdoor play, occur with established routines. Excessive chaos can overwhelm sensitive children.

A little structure is great, but a schedule jam-packed with back-to-back activities leaves kids no time to wander or recharge. Kids under five require free play, not just lessons. If you encounter a screen-filled classroom, inquire how frequently kids use them. Experts agree that kids should have close to no screen time.

Observe how teachers encourage participation. Are most kids engaged and happy, or do many appear distracted? If staff seem overwhelmed trying to manage challenging behaviors or if kids are wandering without purpose, these are significant warning signs to consider when touring preschools.

Vague Answers

Communication is a barometer of school quality, especially when touring preschools. If staff evade questions about safety, curriculum, or discipline, you should inquire for details. For instance, ask how frequently children have outdoor playtime, as outdoor play is vital for preschoolers' mind and body development. A vague response, such as “when we can,” is not sufficient and should raise concerns about the preschool program's quality.

Red flags also arise when asking about meal plans, allergies, or how kids are taught empathy. If you inquire about the teacher-to-child ratio and the staff can’t provide a figure, that’s a sign to reconsider. A great preschool is transparent about these details and communicates them up front, ensuring parents feel informed about their child's readiness skills and overall growth.

Trust your instincts. If you feel staff aren’t being transparent, think about how challenging it might be to receive updates on your child’s progress down the line. Always ensure parents are aware of how discipline works and how staff build social skills in a preschool classroom environment.

Making Your Final Decision

A deliberate decision about the right preschool molds your child’s beginnings. Practical needs, family values, and your preschooler’s comfort must all factor into your choice. Utilize these steps to inform your final decision, reflecting on different preschools to compare and decide with confidence.

• Gather all notes and materials from each preschool tour.
• Go back over your lists of answers to key questions from staff.
• Compare features such as curriculum, communication, costs, and schedule.
• Go over impressions and priorities with your spouse, partner, or other caregivers.
• Bring your child into the discussion and hear their input.
• Reflect on your instincts about each preschool setting.
• Assess how each school aligns with your family’s values.
• Consider logistics: hours, tuition, and location.
• Consider your child’s joy and ease in each area.
• Decide what feels right both logically and emotionally.

Trust Your Instinct

Gut counts when you choose a preschool. Your first answer frequently provides you with candid feedback. If you feel at peace walking through the halls, observe how staff greet you and sense a loving energy. That’s a very strong indicator. If you’re unsettled or dislocated, that is a potential sign to shop around.

Think about how comfortable you feel post-visit. Did the atmosphere seem secure, transparent, and friendly? Did staff respond to questions patiently and clearly? Observe if the school’s pedagogy matches your philosophy on early education. For instance, some families opt for play-based programs, while others desire a curriculum. Go with those impressions. Even if a preschool ticks all the boxes on paper, it still has to ‘feel’ right for you and your child. Your instincts are informed by your understanding of your child and what they require to flourish.

Compare Your Notes

Going over in-depth notes from each tour allows you to view the big picture and fine details. Look for commonalities, perhaps two provide flexible hours, or both have great language programs. Variations pop up, such as one school taking a Montessori approach and another emphasizing group work.

Discuss it with your spouse or a good friend. Discuss what resonated, and hear theirs. It’s easy to get lost in details, so focus on what matters most: child safety, learning style, routine, and how well you can stay informed as a parent. Rank these according to your family’s needs and work schedules.

Involve Your Child

Involve your child in the decision. Post photos or anecdotes on each preschool. Ask easy questions to get a feel. Occasionally, a kiddo will glow when discussing a particular space or teacher.

If you can, set up a play date or trial day at your front runners. Observe your child’s behavior—do they participate, experiment, and seem joyful? Or do they appear nervous and distant? Your child’s comfort is paramount; it can tell you more than a school brochure.

Have your child voice any concerns or aspirations. Demonstrate that you care about their emotions, even if their comments are trite. If they say, ‘I liked the blue room,’ ask why. Sometimes their little input can steer your decision and involve them in the process.

Your Preschool Tour Checklist

A preschool tour is your opportunity to determine if the right preschool is suitable for your family. Take this checklist along with you on preschool tours to keep you focused, identify key things to look for in the preschool classroom, and get a sense of the staff and learning environment. Touring preschools with a checklist in hand and a clear set of criteria in mind allows you to compare your options with confidence.

First, consider the curriculum and teaching philosophy. Inquire if the curriculum meets or exceeds state or local standards. If the school is faith-based, ask how they incorporate those lessons into everyday life. You want to find out if they’re Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or play-based. Quality childcare programs can explain why they use their specific style and what it means for your child’s development.

Inquire about the typical day. You want a schedule that maintains consistency but has enough flexibility to accommodate toddlers. Ask how they divide the day between free play, learning, snack breaks, and naps. A well-structured day might include a Bible lesson in the morning, group time for news and songs, outside play, and then art or music after lunch. Observe if preschoolers appear engaged and joyful during your tour.

Ask about meals and snacks. Query whether the school has a food program or if you need to bring lunch. Some schools provide snacks, while others rely on parents. It’s important to ensure that the meals suit your child’s dietary needs. If your child has allergies or dietary restrictions, inquire about how they ensure the children’s safety during meal times.

Discuss the hours of operation. Ask when the school opens and closes, whether they provide half-day, full-day, or extended care, and if you can switch your plan if your work or family life changes. Make sure drop-off and pick-up times are convenient for you. A disconnect here can make even the best school a challenging fit.

Focus on outdoor time. Find out how much time the kids spend outside every day. If the weather is inclement, do they have indoor play or physical activities? A good preschool program spends the right amount of time outdoors and inside, with secure areas for both types of play.

Arrange for the first visit to be child-free. This allows you to concentrate on the staff and facilities without distraction. If the school seems like a good fit, then return for a visit with your child to observe them. Pay attention to how teachers interact with the children, how tidy the rooms are, and whether kids appear content and well-nourished.

Conclusion

You’ve got a huge decision in your hands. Every question you pose on a preschool tour reveals new answers about your kid’s days to come. You sense how teachers interact, how children play, and how rooms feel. You see if the rules align with your own style. You feel a vibe in the corridors. You see smiles, hear laughter, and smell whispers of nurturing. Believe your notes. Believe what you saw and heard. The right fit feels obvious, not contrived. You know what’s most important for your family. Bring your checklist, step inside, and hear what your instincts tell you. Your child’s best start starts with your watchful eye. Go make that next move—your intuition lights the path.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Should You Look For Before Asking Questions On A Preschool Tour?

Pay attention to the preschool classroom environment, teacher-student interactions, and children’s engagement. This attention allows you to ask more intelligent and relevant questions on your school tour.

2. How Do You Know If A Preschool’s Curriculum Is Right For Your Child?

Inquire about the daily activities, instructional approaches, and educational objectives of the preschool program to ensure they align with your child’s developmental needs and your family’s values for early childhood education.

3. What Safety Measures Should You Check During Your Visit?

Check for secure entrances, emergency procedures, and training at the preschool classroom. Question how the daycare center handles health and emergencies to keep your child safe.

4. Why Is Teacher Experience Important In Preschools?

Seasoned teachers in the preschool classroom understand child development, allowing them to effectively support your preschooler's learning and emotional needs. Inquire about faculty credentials and professional development.

5. What Are Common Red Flags To Watch For On A Tour?

Be alert for unhappy preschoolers, high staff turnover, grimy preschool classrooms, or inadequate supervision. These may be red flags for underlying problems with the preschool program's quality and care.

6. How Can You Tell If A Preschool Values Cultural Inclusivity?

Inquire about how the right preschool celebrates various cultures and communicates with parents from diverse backgrounds. Inclusive preschool programs embrace and honor all children and families.

7. What Should You Bring Or Prepare For Your Preschool Tour?

Take a list of your questions and a notebook for your school tour. Be ready to jot down notes about what you observe in the preschool classroom and hear regarding the preschool program. This allows you to compare different preschools and make the most informed decision for your preschooler.

Take The First Step Toward A Brighter Beginning

Ready to take the next step in your Montessori journey? Whether you're just starting to explore or already leaning toward enrolling, we invite you to experience Fountainhead Montessori in person. Our campuses in Danville and Livermore offer toddler through preschool programs designed to nurture each child’s unique strengths, with optional before- and after-care for busy families.

Click below to schedule a personal tour, download our free parent guide, or view our transparent tuition rates. Still have questions? Our admissions team is happy to help you find the best fit for your family.

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