It’s never to early to start looking at preschool centers! Some of the best educational schools have a waiting list of a year or more, so you need to get a head-start if you are looking into center care for your child.
You will need to decide if you want your child enrolled in a formal educational center, where preparation for grade school is the focus, or a more relaxed play oriented preschool. Montessori schools are gaining popularity as they combine creative teaching methods with a fun atmosphere.
There are some free preschools; most of these are church run or state preschools and have limited resources. Others are run on a sliding scale fee basis, or offer heavy discounts if you enroll more than one child. You usually have to meet certain income guidelines to qualify for such preschools.
Co-op preschools are another inexpensive venue, and have the added advantage of parent involvement! This is a very nice option if you can find or found a co-op preschool in your area. Often the focus of these preschools is a relaxed learning environment, and all parents will take turns volunteering and teaching the children.
Catholic preschools are often very highly rated and offer a controlled, formal classroom experience. This might be your best option if you intend for your child to go to Catholic school as the method of teaching and the discipline will be familiar to them.
Good preschools will often have an application process; and require a hefty up front deposit to hold your child’s spot. The top preschools are almost as hard to get into as some colleges! Don’t stress, though; your child is unlikely to be disadvantaged if they don’t get into the swankiest care center in town.
Tour the preschools on your top picks list, and see if you can arrange for your child to stay for a day, just to see how compatible it is to your needs. Finding the right preschool may take time, but knowing your child is in the best environment possible will make it worth it!
I really was happy with the Montesorri School we found for my daughter! She is very happy there and the learn a lot. I know when she starts kindergarten next year she will be well prepared and used to being around other children!
I am planning to homeschool our four year old, but we do participate in a co-op pre-K and hope to convince others to keep it going up into the schoolage years! I think co-operative schooling can provide some of the best education for our children, what with the way schools are today!