Mom's Talk: How Do You Pick a Preschool?

The moment has arrived. Your little one is ready to leave the nest -- at least for a few hours a week. Preschool looms on your horizon. It's your child’s first step into formal education. But, how do you pick a preschool that will be the right fit for your child?

Here are a few factors that I took into consideration when looking at preschools for my twins:

1. What is the overall environment like? Is there art work displayed? Are the play areas organized?  Is the school clean? Look in the bathrooms, the play areas and the kitchen. Is there an outdoor play area?
2. What hours does the school have? Is there after-care?  What is the child/teacher ratio? Do they serve a snack? 
3. What is the philosophy of the preschool? Some philosophies include Piaget, Waldorf, Reggio-Emelia and Montessori. Each of these teaching styles works best for different children. Research each of these styles and ask the preschool about their specific teaching philosophy so you can decide which is best for your child.
4. It is very important to let your child visit the preschool and observe how they feel about it. If they look uncomfortable after a visit or even two, it may not be the school for you.
5. What is the school’s approach to kindergarten readiness? Are they incorporating learning throughout the day?

And next week, all Sonoma parents are in luck! The Sonoma Valley Mothers’ Club will be holding its annual preschool fair. 

This fun and informative event lets parents meet with local preschool programs in one convenient place. The preschool fair is on Monday, March 21, 2011, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  The fair is open to everyone in the community and is free of charge.  It will be located at Burlingame Hall, on the grounds of the /Congregation at 252 West Spain Street. 

You will be able to meet individually with representatives from local preschools who will be at tables well-stocked with information.  The following preschools will be attending:

• Crescent Montessori
• Moldovan Academy
• Old Adobe School
• Rainbow Garden
• Sunshine School
• Kenwood School
• Little Shepherd Preschool

You will also be able to sample several other activities for preschoolers such as teachers of music, ballet, martial arts, swimming, and other activities available in Sonoma. In short, don't miss this fun and informative evening!  

Visit www.sonomamothersclub.org for additional information about the club. And for more information about the Preschool Fair, email SVMCPreschoolFair@yahoo.com or call 996-9890.