Aug 18 2009
Guideline #2 to Help Parents Select a Preschool
After you have examined the physical attributes of a child care facility, it is time to uncover its philosophy. It is very important for parents to select a school that shares similar ideas as to how children learn and what they should be learning. In order to determine if the school is a good fit for your child, make certain the director is willing to spend time answering any and all of your questions. My questions to the director may include: how do you determine the developmental level of each child in the program? In other words, will your child be formally tested or will the observant teacher set up activities where children’s participation will be recorded? Make certain to ask the director/teacher to answer questions dealing with the importance of fostering socio-emotional and cognitive growth. Ask the professional how they go about creating a foundation for success. I would also ask the person in charge to answer if he/she sees the teacher’s role as that of a facilitator or that of an instructor. To me, children will flourish in environments where they are valued for who they are. Teachers must understand the developmental needs of young children as they establish programs based on moving, grooving, playing, creating, and exploring. If the school ‘s philosophy coincides with yours, continue on to the next step on the check list, but, if it does not, thank the school personnel for their time and move on to the next early childhood center.
Magical Educating!
Donna Mavrides
Magical Moments
www.magicalms.com
