What to Look for in a Preschool (A Parent Checklist)
Choosing a preschool is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your child’s early years. You’re not only selecting a place for your child to spend time during the day—you’re choosing an environment that will shape how they learn, communicate, build confidence, and feel safe outside the home.
This parent checklist is designed to help you compare schools with clarity and confidence. Use it while researching online, calling for information, or touring a campus.
1. Safety and Cleanliness (Non-Negotiables)
A high-quality preschool should have clear systems in place to protect children and maintain a clean environment.
Look for:
Secure entry and controlled access (locked doors, check-in/out process)
Clean classrooms, bathrooms, and eating areas
Consistent adult supervision at all times
Clear illness and medication policies
Emergency preparedness plans (fire, severe weather, lockdown)
Ask:
“How do you handle sick children during the day?”
“What are your safety procedures for drop-off and pick-up?”
“How often are toys and surfaces disinfected?”
2. Teacher-to-Child Ratio and Class Size
Class size and ratios are two of the biggest factors in how much individual attention children receive. Smaller class sizes generally allow teachers to support learning, behavior, and development more closely.
Look for:
Teachers who appear calm, engaged, and attentive
Children who are supervised and supported, not overwhelmed
Classrooms that feel structured instead of chaotic
Ask:
“What is the teacher-to-child ratio for my child’s age group?”
“What is the maximum class size?”
“Do you maintain the same teachers throughout the year?”
3. Curriculum and Learning Structure
Preschool should be more than supervision. It should include intentional learning through play, routines, and developmentally appropriate instruction.
A strong curriculum typically includes:
Early literacy (letters, sounds, vocabulary)
Early math (counting, patterns, shapes)
Fine motor development (writing readiness, hand strength)
Social and emotional learning (sharing, emotional vocabulary, problem-solving)
Creative expression (music, art, movement)
Ask:
“How do you plan learning activities each week?”
“What does a typical day look like?”
“How do you prepare children for kindergarten?”
4. Communication With Parents
Parents should feel informed and included. A strong preschool will have consistent systems for communication and transparency.
Look for:
Daily updates (in-person, app, or written)
Scheduled parent conferences or progress reports
Curriculum newsletters or monthly themes
Teachers and administrators who respond promptly
Ask:
“How will I know what my child is learning each week?”
“How do you communicate behavioral or developmental concerns?”
“Do you provide progress updates?”
5. Behavior Support and Emotional Development
Children are learning emotional regulation in real time. Great schools guide behavior through teaching, structure, and calm consistency rather than harsh consequences.
Look for:
Clear routines and expectations
Support for conflict resolution and emotional language
Positive guidance methods that teach children what to do instead
Ask:
“How do you handle tantrums, hitting, biting, or defiance?”
“How do you teach children to resolve conflict?”
“Do you use time-outs? If so, how?”
6. Social Skills and Life Skills (The Hidden Curriculum)
Preschool success is not only about academic readiness. It’s also about learning how to function in a group and build independence.
A strong preschool helps children practice:
Following directions
Taking turns
Expressing needs appropriately
Listening and participating in group settings
Managing transitions
Using the bathroom independently (when age-appropriate)
Ask:
“How do you help children build independence?”
“How do you support children who are shy or struggle socially?”
7. Enrichment and Whole-Child Development
Many schools offer enrichment programs that support development beyond the basics. These programs can build confidence and strengthen cognitive and physical skills.
Examples of enrichment include:
Language exposure (such as Spanish)
Communication support (such as sign language)
Music and movement
Yoga or mindfulness
Gardening or nature-based learning
Ask:
“What enrichment activities are included?”
“How often do children participate?”
“Are enrichment programs part of tuition or additional fees?”
8. Faith-Based or Values-Based Learning (If Important to Your Family)
If values and faith are important in your household, you may want a preschool that reinforces them in a warm and age-appropriate way.
Look for:
A culture of kindness, respect, and compassion
Faith integrated naturally and gently
A supportive, welcoming environment
Ask:
“How is faith incorporated into the school day?”
“What values are emphasized in the classroom?”
9. The “Gut Check” During Your Visit
Sometimes your strongest indicator is what you observe during your tour.
Ask yourself:
Do the teachers appear happy and supported?
Are the children engaged and comfortable?
Does the space feel organized and calm?
Do administrators answer questions clearly and confidently?
Would I feel comfortable leaving my child here?
If things feel rushed, unclear, or disorganized, it may be worth continuing your search.
Quick Parent Checklist
Use this condensed list when comparing preschools:
Safety procedures and secure entry
Clean, well-maintained environment
Strong teacher-to-child ratio and manageable class size
Structured curriculum and daily schedule
Kindergarten readiness support
Consistent communication with parents
Positive behavior guidance and emotional support
Social skill development and independence practice
Enrichment opportunities
Values or faith alignment (if relevant)
A positive, confident feeling after your visit
Why This Matters
Your child’s preschool experience lays the foundation for confidence, learning, emotional development, and readiness for kindergarten. A preschool should provide structure, warmth, and intentional teaching in a safe, supportive space.