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How Do I Find a Pre-School? One of the best sources for locating a pre-school for your child is friends and family members who have older children who once attended pre-school. Helpful friends and family can tell you which schools should be avoided, as well as which schools worked well for their own children. Searching the Internet, calling a local childcare agency in your county, or simply looking in the phone book can also give you a list of possible pre-schools for your child. What Should I Look for in a Pre-School? Visit each pre-school that is a possible candidate for your child. Each pre-school should be licensed. Ask for references of parents whose children are currently enrolled. References can tell you much about the pre-school's willingness to work with you. Pre-schools should feel “homey” to a child. They should be peaceful, yet brightly decorated with children in mind. Don't be overly concerned if the classroom you are visiting is messy. If children are playing happily, there may be a mess. However, dirty and unsanitary conditions are unacceptable. Ask about the child to teacher ratio, as well as how many children are enrolled in one class. Ask about the policies at each pre-school. Pre-schools should have a policy that children are never left alone without adult supervision, that toys are washed and cleaned, as well as a sick child policy. Meet with your child’s prospective teacher. The teacher should not be stiff or formal. The teacher should be interested in your child, should show enthusiasm in working with children. Observe the children in the classroom. Do they seem happy? Are they busy? Are they bored? Are they arguing and unsupervised? Do they seem to like the teacher? Preparing Your Child for Pre-School When preparing your child for pre-school, begin talking to your child about pre-school a few weeks in advance. Upon arrival, see if you are allowed to stay a few minutes to acclimate your child to the new classroom. If needed, provide something for your child from home that they can have with them. This can include a picture, stuffed animal or other “lovely” which they can keep in their own cubby. Do not sneak out when your child is not watching. Your child should be given a proper good-bye. Caregivers should not let a child know if they are saddened about the good-bye. Good-byes should be sweet, short and loving. Talk to your child, reassure him or her, and allow for an adjustment period.
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