How To Choose the Ideal Early Learning Environment for Your Child

Did you know the first years of education have a long-lasting effect on your child’s success and health? Early childhood education and care are vital. When children are healthy, safe, and in a suitable learning environment, we set them up to reach their full developmental potential as adults. With that said, what makes a school ideal for early learning? 

An environment that prioritizes nurturing growth and success in young learners stands out. Curious about how you find such an institution for young students? In this article, we’ll delve deep into how to choose the ideal learning environment for your child. 

Finding the Best Early Learning School Near You: 4 Steps

1. Specify Your Needs

Most importantly, what are your child’s educational needs? Will they thrive in a play-based school or one that offers structured academic programs? Define your preferences and start your search. 

What about the location? One that’s near your home or school could be ideal because your child will have short commutes, so they arrive at school feeling fresh and energetic. 

Something else worth thinking of is how much you want to spend on your child’s early education journey. Of course, you want your kids’ early learning programs to be high-quality and affordable. (Hint: See if the school offers a discount for additional siblings enrolled.)

2. Look at Reviews

Take a look at online reviews. When checking reviews and you spot comments like, “I love my child’s daycare center because it’s safe” or “My child enjoys the activities they engage in at school”, those could be good signs.

3. Schedule Visits to Daycares and Preschools

Visiting a tour before enrolling your little one is a critical step. A tour gives you a first-hand experience of the teachers’ interaction with children, school safety, and learning practices. In the digital age, top daycares offer virtual tours — see if any on your list offer these. (Plus, that could be a good hint that the school is understanding of the demands placed on busy families.)

4. Take a Careful Look at the Facility

During your tour, consider:

• How welcoming is the school environment? 

A welcoming preschool is warm and inclusive. The caregivers are quick to interact with you and your child, ensuring that you all feel comfortable.  

• Is the environment safe? 

Check if classrooms are clean and free from hazards — fencing, a secure entryway, security cameras, and safe play equipment are all major factors for your checklist. 

• Does the learning center encourage play and foster social and emotional development? 

Play is an important aspect of a child’s life. Playful learning helps children learn creative thinking, socialization skills, emotional regulation, and more. An environment should provide many play-based learning programs to support your child’s social and emotional development. 

3 Questions To Ask Daycares and Preschools

After evaluating the environment, inquire about:

1. “What Is the School’s Program and Curriculum?”

Does the school have programs customized for different age groups, or do they follow a specific curriculum? For example, LadyBug Friends Daycare and Preschool has an infant program created so infants receive individualized care while engaging in age-appropriate development activities. 

Infants (six weeks to 15 months), toddlers (15 to 24 months), two’s (two to three years), and preschoolers (three to six years) all have different needs. Programs are best when tailored to each of these age groups. 

See if the center has a nutrition-focused food plan. Do they offer breakfast, a morning snack, lunch, a late-day snack, or all of the above? Inquire into the center’s allergy and food safety procedures as well. 

2. “What Training Do the Teachers and Staff Have?”

Teachers at daycares and preschools play a crucial role in children’s early learning. Ask about staff credentials, including degrees in early childhood education and care. See if they are registered in ongoing training to enhance their teaching skills and provide quality care.

Depending on your state, qualifications change. For instance, if touring a Chicago, Illinois preschool, one great marker to question is if the staff meets or exceeds the DCFS standards.

3. “Is the Center Licensed or Accredited?”

A license proves that the daycare or preschool meets set safety and health standards. They will follow strict health and safety protocols, including nutrition. So, ask for a copy of the school’s license to ensure it’s valid. 

Beyond asking, you can search for accredited or certified daycares on the NAEYC website if you are in the United States.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Early Learning

You want to make sure your choice matches the needs of your child and your preferences. 

Define your child’s learning interests and list your considerations, such as costs, location, and work schedule. Visiting different preschools in person and asking questions can also help make an informed decision about the learning environment you want for your child. Whether your little one is taking their first steps or getting ready to walk into kindergarten in the near future, your family deserves the best. 

Sandra Chiu works as Director at LadyBug & Friends Daycare and Preschool.

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