Choosing the Right Preschool

As published in the LaPorte County Herald-Argus:

Choosing the Right Preschool
By, Michelle Harmon

If you have preschool age children, it is time to start thinking about which preschool you will send them to. And, there is no limit to the options available to you. There are Montessori preschools, half-day preschools, full-day preschools, private, public, and so forth. The task of getting your child enrolled in the “right” preschool is extremely daunting. But, it does not have to be.
Most preschools have open houses, which can be a great way to learn about the school and meet the teachers. Also, any good school will let you come and sit in on a class. Finally, your best resource is other moms. Ask your Mom friends or the Moms in your neighborhood where they sent their kids. Word of mouth, I've always found, is the best way to find a reputable anything—from mechanic to preschool.
Another word of advice, do not stress too much about the curriculum. This is preschool we're talking about, not college. Most preschools have generally the same goals: to teach the ABCs and 123s. And, don't forget fun. You certainly don't want your three or four year old to hate school already because she doesn't get to have any fun! I'd pay more attention to the teacher than the curriculum. If the teacher is, as one of my Mom friends put it, “warm and fuzzy” your child is more likely to feel secure and comfortable and want to learn and play with this teacher. Being hard and strict is certainly not a trait to look for in a preschool teacher. Middle school or high school is a better place for a strict, no nonsense teacher.
Lastly, do not spend a lot of money on preschool. As with most things, just because it costs more does not mean it is better. I learned this lesson the hard way and wasted hundreds of dollars on a preschool that was not any better than the much cheaper one my friends sent their kids to. Bottom line, pick a school that is relatively close to your house, is reasonably priced, and, most importantly, has a warm and fuzzy teacher waiting to welcome your child into the world of learning.