If you are the parent of a preschooler, you know that this stage of life can be full of fun, learning, and development. Young children soak up the world around them and often have many, many questions.
Research shows that all these questions happen for a good reason. Children’s brains grow and develop faster during their first five years than at any other time. While children play, explore, and make friends, their brains are making connections that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.
A nurturing preschool program can give kids the experiences they need to prepare for Kindergarten. In preschool, children build a strong foundation of skills that will help them succeed throughout elementary school.
There are so many Pasco County preschools. Finding the right preschool is essential. This guide will detail how to find a great preschool program to nurture your child’s development and growth.
Contact the caring educators at Little Sunshine Preschool now to learn about our programs. You can also ask questions or schedule a tour of our learning center. We look forward to meeting you and your child!
Choosing the Right Preschool in Pasco County: What to Look For
Research shows that attending a high-quality preschool program can lead to better outcomes in Kindergarten and beyond. Good preschools follow a developmentally appropriate curriculum and create an enriching environment where kids thrive.
But how can you tell if a preschool offers high-quality care and education? There are many things to consider when choosing the right preschool for your child.
Here are some of the most important things to look for in a high-quality preschool.
1. Educated teachers
Preschool is not simply daycare for 3, 4, and 5-year-olds. A preschool program follows a specific curriculum and focuses on preparing children for school.
Preschool teachers should have post-high school education. Specialized education allows teachers to understand young children’s developmental, physical, and emotional needs.
When considering a preschool program, ask about the teachers’ education and experience. Look for programs with warm, nurturing, and educated teachers.
2. A welcoming environment
Preschoolers are often curious, playful, and energetic. Research shows that preschool-aged children thrive in enriching, welcoming environments.
A preschool program should provide many opportunities for young children to play, move, and explore the environment. Look for a preschool that offers plenty of hands-on learning in a welcoming, nurturing environment.
3. Sensory activities
Young children use their senses to explore their environment. Great preschools provide lots of sensory play and education that keeps kids engaged in what they’re learning.
Look for a preschool that uses a play-based curriculum. This may include:
- Interactive math lessons like measuring classroom items with a ruler and singing counting songs
- Acting out familiar stories
- Sensory play–finger painting, playing musical instruments, playing with sand or water, etc.
- Cutting, gluing, painting, ripping, weaving, and other kinds of hands-on art projects
- Planting seeds, digging in the dirt, identifying leaves, and other ways of engaging with nature
Kids learn best by doing. Your child’s classroom should have space and materials that allow them to play, run, move, and explore freely.
4. Kindergarten readiness
When some people think about being “ready for Kindergarten,” they might imagine that a child must know how to write their name or know the alphabet perfectly.
These skills can be beneficial, but actual Kindergarten readiness means that a child can be a good member of a classroom community. In preschool, kids should learn good social skills in addition to colors, numbers, and letters.
Your child’s preschool curriculum should focus on:
- Pre-literacy: letter recognition and letter sounds
- Pre-math: number recognition, counting, simple logic
- Social skills: listening to a teacher, following a routine, working with others, making friends
Ask questions about what your child will learn and the preschool’s educational approach.
Finding the Right Preschool in Pasco County: A Step-by-Step Guide
Finding the right preschool for your child may seem overwhelming. However, following these steps can help you find the right fit with less stress.
1. Research your options
Research local preschools. Ask friends and family for recommendations or search online. Consider factors like the center’s schedule, educational approach, and location to determine which options work best for you.
2. Take a tour
Visit the preschool center. Bring your child with you on visits, if possible. Ask questions and get to know the teachers. Look for:
- A warm, welcoming environment
- Friendly teachers
- Developmentally appropriate toys, books, and other classroom materials
- A safe, engaging outdoor play space
Learn about the daily schedule, the center’s discipline policy, and anything else you’re curious about.
3. Apply
Once you find a center that feels like a good fit, you may apply. Make sure you know what forms and other documentation you need to submit. Be aware of application deadlines.
If you are a parent of a Pasco County preschooler, reach out to the Little Sunshine Preschool team to learn about our enriching programs or to schedule a tour. We look forward to meeting you soon!
