How do I find a preschool?

We don't really know anyone in the area-because we just moved here. Anyone we do know don't really have children preschool age-they are either a lot older or new babies. I have looked online but I am having trouble finding any information. How do I go about finding a preschool in the area to see about sending DS there?
DS keeps telling us he wants to go to school and I really could use that break from him. So, DH and I have decided to look into sending him....we just don't know where to start. I feel so lost.

Thanks to anyone that can give me advice!

 

You could try the NAEYC website. They accredit preschools nationwide and have a search page on their website to tell you which schools in your area are accredited. That could help narrow it down for you. I'm not sure where you are, but there may not be that many that are accredited. I live in a metro area of about 1/2 million, and there are only three accredited in our area. So that means there are probably plenty of good ones that haven't done the NAEYC accreditation.....but it could at least give you a starting point.

Otherwise, I guess the good old fashioned phone book? Maybe your pediatrician?

Good luck!!

 

QUOTE(BridgePort @ Feb 7 2008, 03:49 PM) [snapback]611438[/snapback]
You could try the NAEYC website. They accredit preschools nationwide and have a search page on their website to tell you which schools in your area are accredited. That could help narrow it down for you. I'm not sure where you are, but there may not be that many that are accredited. I live in a metro area of about 1/2 million, and there are only three accredited in our area. So that means there are probably plenty of good ones that haven't done the NAEYC accreditation.....but it could at least give you a starting point.

Otherwise, I guess the good old fashioned phone book? Maybe your pediatrician?

Good luck!!

Thanks--

I'll try to find that website. *edited to say: I found it.

As for the pediatrician--we still have our old one an hour+ away. Can't find out that 1)I am comfortable with and 2)insurance will cover.

 

When we moved in June 2006 and I wante Annie to start 3yo preschool in September I used the phone book! I live in a small town so there weren't too many to pick from!!

 

Try the yellow pages, and then call around. Look under preschools and nursery schools. Many schools are starting enrollment now, and you shouldn't find it difficult to schedule a visit. A few things to note, around here, preschools fill up fast, and the "better" ones tend to only have PM slots available for new families. The only one around here that routinely has AM slots available, is the one I have heard horror stories about. Also, in terms of looking ahead, I would ask about if they have more than one class running at a time, because if you stay there and send the girls, it is nice to know if you have the option available for separating them.

 

A lot of school advertise in the local parenting/family magazines too. Just make sure you go and visit during a busy time so you can see how the school really works.
Good Luck
Cari

 

I would try cold calling for info- and then visiting the ones that interest you.

Many places around here allow a - trial visit for a morning for parents to observe and the child to see if they are a good fit. There is not a waiting list in our area for most preschools if you sign up now for next fall.

Good Luck, and remember if it is not a good fit , you can always try another one with different style (academic, play based, etc).

KC

 

I would look in the phone book to find some listings, or check the local paper. Then schedule some visits. Go in equipped with some questions. We just registered for the fall and our twins will be 3 next week. Our school does the enrollment by the school year and they were too young last fall, so they will do 2 years. Most preschools require the kids to be 2 yrs, 9 months.

Here are some:



Ten Questions to Ask the School
Searching for a preschool for your child? Here are ten questions Sue Crystal suggests you ask:

1. How long has the school been in existence?
2. What experience do the teachers have?
3. What is the daily routine?
4. What is the parent involvement?
5. Is there time set aside for the parent and teachers to discuss the child?
6. How is discipline handled?
7. Does the school have an outdoor space and how often is it used?
8. Does the school take field trips?
9. What is the vacation and holiday schedule?
10. What is the policy for taking care of sick or injured children?

Four Questions to Ask Yourself
When visiting a preschool, rely on what you see. Here are four questions to ask yourself:

1. Are the children safe, busy, and happy?
2. Does the school have a lively, creative order to it?
3. Are the rooms decorated with teacher art or children's art? (Children's art decorating the room is a sign the teachers value what the children create.)
4. Do the teachers seem to like what they are doing?