10 Questions to Ask During a Preschool Tour

Choosing the right preschool for your child is an important decision, and one of the best ways to ensure you’re making the right choice is by visiting potential schools. A preschool tour allows you to observe the environment, meet the staff, and ask questions that will help you understand whether the preschool is the right fit for your child. Here are 10 essential questions to ask during a preschool tour to help you make an informed decision.

1. What is the Preschool’s Approach to Learning?

One of the first things you’ll want to know is the preschool’s approach to learning. Does the preschool follow a play-based learning philosophy, a structured curriculum, or a mix of both? Understanding the educational approach helps you determine whether it aligns with your child’s learning style and needs. At Forestville Preschool, we use a combination of intentional teaching and play-based learning to nurture curiosity and foster a love for learning.

2. What Training and Experience Do the Educators Have?

The qualifications and experience of the educators are crucial in ensuring your child is in good hands. Ask about their academic background, years of experience, and any professional development they have undergone. Highly qualified educators can significantly impact a child’s learning experience, and at Forestville Preschool, our educators hold university degrees in Early Childhood Education and are committed to ongoing professional development.

3. How Many Children Are in Each Group?

The number of children in a group impacts how much individual attention your child will receive. Smaller class sizes often result in a more personalised experience and greater opportunities for your child to engage with their teacher. Ask about the child-to-teacher ratio and the total number of children in each group. At Forestville Preschool, we ensure that our group sizes are manageable, allowing each child to receive the attention they need.

4. What Does a Usual Day Look Like?

Understanding the daily schedule will help you get a sense of the preschool’s structure and how much time your child will spend on different activities. Ask about the balance between free play, structured activities, outdoor time, and rest periods. At Forestville Preschool, our days are carefully planned to include a combination of play-based learning, group activities, outdoor exploration, and time for rest and reflection.

5. How Does the Preschool Keep Children Safe and Healthy?

Safety and health are top priorities for any preschool. Ask about the safety measures in place, including how the preschool manages health emergencies, keeps the environment secure, and maintains hygiene standards. Forestville Preschool follows stringent health and safety protocols, including regular cleaning of the facilities, safe outdoor play areas, and trained staff to handle medical emergencies.

6. How Does the Preschool Help Children Learn to Socialise?

Socialisation is a key aspect of preschool. It’s important to know how the preschool helps children develop social skills like sharing, turn-taking, and conflict resolution. Ask about how children are encouraged to interact with their peers and how the preschool fosters a sense of community. At Forestville Preschool, we create a nurturing environment that encourages cooperation, empathy, and positive peer interactions.

7. How Will I Know What My Child Is Doing?

Open communication with parents is essential in ensuring you stay informed about your child’s progress. Ask about how the preschool keeps parents updated on their child’s daily activities, milestones, and developmental progress. At Forestville Preschool, we provide regular updates through parent-teacher meetings, newsletters, and digital platforms to keep parents involved in their child’s learning journey.

8. What Are the Rooms and Outdoor Areas Like?

Take time to evaluate both the indoor and outdoor spaces of the preschool. Are the classrooms bright, stimulating, and well-equipped? Is the outdoor space safe, inviting, and conducive to play? These areas should encourage exploration, creativity, and physical activity. At Forestville Preschool, our large outdoor learning spaces, gardens, and shaded areas provide a rich environment for children to explore and engage in physical play.

9. What Happens at Meal and Snack Times?

Mealtime is an important part of the preschool experience. Ask how meals and snacks are managed, whether they are provided by the preschool or brought from home, and what the preschool’s policy is on healthy eating and food allergies. At Forestville Preschool, we encourage healthy eating habits and provide nutritious snacks, and we work closely with families to accommodate any food allergies or dietary needs.

10. What Are the Fees and How Do I Enrol?

Finally, you’ll want to know about the costs associated with the preschool, as well as the enrolment process. Ask about the tuition fees, payment schedules, and whether there are any additional costs for extracurricular activities or supplies. It’s also helpful to understand the steps involved in enrolling your child and any important deadlines. At Forestville Preschool, we offer transparent fee structures and an easy enrolment process to make the transition as smooth as possible for families.

Conclusion

A preschool tour is a valuable opportunity to learn more about the school and assess whether it’s the right fit for your child. By asking the right questions, you can make an informed decision that will set your child up for success. Don’t hesitate to visit several preschools to compare and see which one feels right for you and your child.

Learn More About Forestville Preschool

If you’re looking for a preschool that offers a welcoming, supportive, and play-based learning environment, Forestville Preschool is here to help. With over 50 years of experience, a focus on school readiness, and a commitment to nurturing each child’s potential, we are proud to be part of the Forestville community. To learn more about our approach to early childhood education and to schedule a tour, visit our website today.