10 Things to ask when choosing Pre-K

One of the most common questions we get here at Ready 4 K is, "What should parents look for when choosing an early learning setting for their preschoolers?" Parents and advocates ask because they know that having a quality early learning experience before kindergarten is so important, but identifying if a particular program is high quality can be daunting. That's why NIEER (National Institute for Early Education Research) has compiled a list of Top 10 Pre-K Questions for parents to ask as they search for high quality preschools.
For example:

1. Can I make an appointment to visit your program and spend time in a classroom?
What to look for: safe spaces with children comfortable and engaged in what they are doing, not easily distracted or wandering aimlessly; children seem happy, not distressed, bored or crying; adults are caring, sensitive (not harsh), responsive to children's needs and requests, and involved in what the children are doing by helping children solve problems, accomplish projects and learn; time and space for active outdoor and indoor play as well as quiet time. Children's voices dominate.

Click here to see the entire list. Is there anything else that you look for when choosing an early learning setting? Leave your comments below.