Wondertime's Preschool Checklists
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- Does the schedule allow for a balance of individual and group activities?
- Is there both structured and unstructured time?
- Is there downtime after more intense or physically demanding activities?
- Is there a consistent and predictable routine, and do the teachers make the children aware of what the routine is?
- Is the schedule developmentally appropriate? (For instance, does it offer enough time for snack, napping, going to the potty?)
- Does the schedule allow for different types of needs? For example, is there adequate time for clingier kids to say goodbye to parents without interfering with scheduled activities, such as going off to a movement class in the gym?
- Does the group's energy seem balanced between boisterous and quiet kids?
- Does the boy-girl balance seem right for your child?
- Do there seem to be some gentle boys and rambunctious girls in the mix?
- Are there children who stand out as having needs that will have a high impact on the group? If so, does the classroom have the resources to handle these needs without sacrificing your child's needs?
- Do kids behave toward each other in ways that seem respectful and reciprocal?
- Is the head of the school around much? Does she greet kids in the morning? Does she answer voice-mail and e-mail promptly?
- How flexible is the school to the needs of kids and parents? Are they willing to accommodate someone with a wacky schedule? A kid who can only nap with a pacifier or special blankie?
- How long have teachers been at the school? If turnover is high, how does the school explain this? If teachers have been there a long time, what does the school do to support their continued engagement — for example, paying for continuing education classes?
- What holidays does the school celebrate? How are they celebrated? (For example, is Halloween marked with costumes and a parade? Are kids forbidden from wearing certain kinds of costumes to school?)
- What foods are allowed in the school? Are birthdays celebrated with cake and cookies, or muffins with no frosting? If the school provides snacks, are they organic?
- What does the school do to foster a sense of community among parents and kids?
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