Important Questions To Ask At A Preschool Tour (FREE Checklist)

Not sure what exactly to ask when touring a preschool?

Here are key questions to ask on a preschool tour that will help you make an informed decision!

Plus, a free preschool tour checklist to help you organize the most important questions to ask a preschool teacher!

Selecting the right preschool for your child is a significant decision, marking the beginning of their formal educational journey.

Early childhood development is very important.

The preschool environment lays the foundation for developing crucial social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills.

As parents, it is imperative to ensure that the preschool you choose meets your child’s needs and aligns with your family’s values.

Touring prospective preschools and asking the right questions can provide insights into the school’s practices, curriculum, environment, and philosophy.

When it comes to choosing a preschool, there are a lot of factors to consider.

One of the most important steps in the process is taking a tour of the facility with one of the preschool directors or the head teacher.

During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see the classrooms, meet the teachers, and get a sense of the school’s overall atmosphere.

What Questions Should I Ask When Touring A Preschool?

In order to make the most of your visit, it’s important to come prepared with a list of questions to ask.

As someone who has been through the preschool tour process before, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be.

That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the top questions to ask during a preschool tour.

By asking these questions, you’ll be able to get a better sense of the school’s policies, procedures, and overall philosophy, which will help you make a more informed decision about whether or not it’s the right fit for your child.

These preschool tour questions can work for private schools and childcare centers.

So, whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned veteran, read on for my top questions to ask during a preschool tour.

Plus, find a free printable preschool tour checklist at the bottom of the post.

Important Questions To Ask A Preschool Tour

If you’re anything like most parents, you want to ensure your child gets the best start possible.

That means finding a preschool that aligns with your family’s needs, values, and expectations.

Touring the preschool and asking questions is the best way to find the right program for your child.

Of course, you don’t have to ask them all.

Pick and choose the questions that are the most important to you.

General Information About Preschool

When first exploring your options, starting with basic questions about the school’s foundations is important.

These are some general questions to ask at a preschool tour:

What is the school’s educational philosophy?

What are the school’s hours of operation?

What is the school’s religious stance and values?

What are their beliefs about discipline?

What is the school’s policy on late pick-ups?

Does the school provide meals or snacks?

How do they engage children who might have different learning styles or needs?

Do you need to provide any supplies?

Is there a dress code?

How do they structure their lessons?

Questions To Ask A Preschool Director

At your next preschool tour, consider the following questions about general info as well as what to ask about curriculum, safety, and more.

Here you will find all the right questions to ask a preschool director and teacher.

Questions About The Classroom Setup and Environment

The way a classroom is set up, and the environment it fosters are crucial components of the learning experience.

The classroom setup is an important factor to consider when assessing a preschool environment.

You want to ensure that the classroom is clean, organized and has a variety of learning materials available.

Use these questions to ask at a preschool tour to learn about the classroom environment, and you’ll already be one step ahead!

Does the school offer outdoor playtime or other activities outside of the classroom?

How are the classrooms clean and organized?

What types of learning materials and toys are available for the children?

Do they offer naptime, if so, what type of nap mat is required?

Are there age-appropriate learning materials available?

Are there various learning centers available such as reading, math, science, and art?

Are the materials accessible to the children?

It’s important to note that the classroom setup should be age-appropriate.

For example, preschoolers should have access to materials that are safe and easy to handle.

By gaining an understanding of the surroundings in which students learn, you can empower yourself to make informed decisions and advocate for a classroom environment that promotes growth and creativity.

Outdoor Play Areas

Outdoor play areas are just as important as indoor learning environments.

Children need time to run, jump, and play outside to develop gross motor skills and socialize with their peers.

Here are some questions to ask when assessing the preschool outdoor play areas:

Is the outdoor play area safe and secure?

Are there age-appropriate play structures available?

Are there areas for children to run and play?

Is there shade available during hot weather?

Are there opportunities for children to explore nature?

It’s important to note that outdoor play areas should be supervised by trained staff to ensure that children are safe and following the rules.

Assessing the environment is important in choosing the right preschool for your child.

By asking the right questions, you can ensure the environment is safe, stimulating, and conducive to learning.

Enrollment and Tuition Questions To Ask A Preschool

When it comes to touring a preschool, enrollment, and tuition are important factors to consider.

While tuition costs may vary, know that investing in your child’s education and future is invaluable. Trust your gut and confidently choose the preschool that feels right for your family.

When visiting a preschool, asking about the admission process and fees is important.

Here are some questions to consider:

Admission Process

What is the application process like? Is there a waiting list?

What age groups does the preschool accept?

Are there any specific requirements for admission, such as potty training or immunizations?

Can parents observe a class before enrolling their child?

What is the enrollment deadline?

Tuition and Other Costs

How much is the tuition? Is it charged monthly or annually?

Are there any additional fees, such as registration fees, supply fees, or field trips?

Is financial aid available? If so, what is the application process like?

What is the policy for late payments or missed payments?

Are there any discounts available for siblings or military families?

It’s important to consider the admission process and fees when choosing a preschool for your child.

By asking these questions, parents can decide which preschool best fits their family’s budget.

Questions To Ask A Preschool Teacher

Gathering questions to ask on a preschool tour can organize your thoughts so you can go in there and fire away confidently.

These questions can help you understand how the school operates and whether it fits your family well.

To find a place where your child can thrive and grow into the best version of themselves.

Preschool Questions About Curriculum and Learning Activities

As a parent, one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a preschool is the curriculum.

During a preschool tour, asking questions about the curriculum is crucial to ensure it aligns with your child’s learning style and goals.

Learning about the specific activities the children engage in can give you insight into how the school supports different aspects of development, such as socialization and problem-solving.

Here are some questions to ask on a preschool tour about curriculum and activities:

What does a typical day look like for a preschooler here?
What is the educational philosophy? Some common educational philosophies in preschools include Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, and play-based learning. Ask the preschool tour guide to explain the philosophy and how it is implemented in the classroom.
How does the school approach early literacy and numeracy?
What opportunities for free play are there?
How does the school incorporate physical activity into the day?
Are lessons teacher-led or child-led?
How are lessons structured?
Do teachers differentiate instruction for students with different learning styles?
Is this a play-based school?
Do they offer a curriculum based on special needs if needed?

Overall, understanding the curriculum is crucial in making an informed decision about preschool.

By asking questions about the educational philosophy, teaching methods, and student evaluation process, you can better understand what your child will be learning and how they will be learning it.

When you’re researching preschools for your little one, it’s important not to skip questions about the curriculum and learning activities.

You want to make sure that your child is being set up for success and learning valuable skills that will lay the foundation for their future academic endeavors.

By asking about the curriculum, you can get a sense of the program’s overall structure and whether it aligns with your educational philosophies.

Student Evaluation Process

Also, you should ask about the student evaluation process.

How are students assessed?

Are there formal assessments, or is progress evaluated through observation?

How are parents updated on their child’s progress?

Understanding the evaluation process will give you an idea of how your child’s progress will be tracked and communicated to you.

Preschool Questions About Staff and Communication

When you’re touring a preschool, it’s important to know about the staff and communication at the school.

This can make a huge difference in your child’s experience and your peace of mind.

You want to ensure that the teachers are experienced and kind.

But it’s also crucial to understand how the school communicates with parents because updates on your child’s progress and any issues that arise can make all the difference.

So don’t be afraid to ask questions about the staff and communication at the preschool.

You deserve to feel empowered and confident in your decision!

These are the questions recommended to ask about the preschool staff:

What are the teachers’ qualifications?
Does the teacher have a college degree in the education of young children?
How does the school communicate with parents?
What is the school’s policy on discipline?
Is there an open-door policy?

You might also ask how teachers communicate with each other about students’ progress and needs and how the school communicates with parents about important updates, events, and emergencies.

Also, you can inquire about any parent-teacher conferences, newsletters, or other avenues for staying informed and involved in your child’s learning and development.

Preschool Health and Safety Measures

When visiting a preschool, it’s important to ask about the health and safety measures in place to ensure the well-being of the children.

As parents, we want the best for our precious little ones, especially regarding their health and safety.

That’s why visiting a preschool before enrollment and gathering questions to ask on a preschool tour is crucial.

But in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s even more important to ensure that the school follows strict sanitation practices and sick-child policies that will protect the health and well-being of your child.

Don’t hesitate to ask the school staff what steps they’ve taken to ensure your preschooler has a clean and healthy environment.

After all, peace of mind is priceless, and learning about these safety measures can empower you as a parent to make the best decision for your child’s preschool years.

Here are some questions to ask and things to look for during your preschool tour:

Safety Procedures

Are there security measures in place to ensure that only authorized individuals can enter the building?

Are emergency procedures in place, such as fire and lockdown drills?

Are there first aid kits and AEDs (automated external defibrillators) readily available?

Are there safety gates and childproof locks on cabinets and drawers?

Are there policies in place for handling accidents and injuries, including reporting and documentation procedures?

Hygiene Practices

How often are toys and surfaces cleaned and disinfected?

Are children required to wash their hands frequently throughout the day, such as before and after meals and after using the bathroom?

Are staff members required to wash their hands frequently and wear gloves when necessary?

Are sick children and staff members required to stay home until they are no longer contagious?

Are there policies for handling illnesses and outbreaks, including notification procedures for parents?

How does the school handle allergies or other special dietary considerations?

Choosing a preschool that prioritizes the health and safety of the children in their care is important.

By asking about safety procedures and hygiene practices during your tour, you can ensure your child will be in a safe and healthy environment while at preschool.

Plus, when taking a preschool tour, you can peep around in all the rooms and the hallways to see how clean they are.

Related Post: 101 Fun Questions To Ask Kids

Parental Involvement Preschool Questions

As a parent, it’s important to know what level of involvement is expected of you at a preschool.

Here are some questions to ask during your tour:

Parent-Teacher Communication

Communication between parents and teachers is crucial for your child’s success in preschool.

You want to ensure that you have access to your child’s teacher and that communication is open and frequent.

Here are some questions to ask:

How often do you communicate with parents?

What methods of communication do you use?

Is there a specific person parents should contact with questions or concerns?

How do you handle conflicts or disagreements between parents and teachers?

Volunteer Opportunities

Many preschools rely on parent volunteers to help with various tasks.

Volunteering is a great way to get involved in your child’s education and to get to know the teachers and other parents.

Here are some questions to ask:

Are there volunteer opportunities available?

What kind of tasks do volunteers typically help with?

How often do you need volunteers?

Are there any requirements or qualifications for volunteers?

Are there any fundraising expectations?

Remember, parent involvement is a two-way street.

You want to ensure that the preschool provides opportunities for you to get involved, but you also need to be willing to put in the effort to be an active participant in your child’s education.

By asking these questions, you can better understand what is expected of you and how you can best support your child’s learning and development.

With the right questions, you can make the right decision about your child’s academic journey and simplify the process.

Touring schools and talking to teachers can help you understand what each one offers so that you can find the perfect fit for your child.

Download the FREE Preschool Tour Checklist

We’ve created a comprehensive checklist to help you get the most out of your school tours, including the most important questions to ask during a preschool tour.

Use it to ensure you don’t miss any important details so you feel confident making the best decision for your family!

You can download the preschool checklist for FREE from Resource Library – if you are not yet a free member, sign up here, and the link will be emailed to you shortly.

Don’t Skip Any Of These Questions to Ask On A Preschool Tour

Remember, no question is too small when it comes to your child’s education.

Listen to your gut feelings and trust your instincts.

The right preschool should answer your questions and make you and your child feel welcomed and valued.

Your child’s first steps in their educational journey are significant, so take your time to make an informed decision.

The ideal preschool will foster your child’s curiosity, ignite their passion for learning, and set them up for a lifetime of success.

Exploring your options while armed with questions to ask a preschool is a great way to feel empowered in decision-making.

Plus, think about all the amazing benefits your child will gain from preschool education – socialization, educational stimulation, and the opportunity to make lifelong friends.

We hope these questions to ask on a preschool tour help you right the right school for your family.

Are they any additional questions you would add to this list?

What do you think is the most important question?

Please let us know in the comments!