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Five Major
  Philosophies of Preschools &
        Day Cares :
 
The most widely used philosophy in early childhood education is the Developmentally Appropriate Philosophy (DAP). DAP can be defined as those practices which are 1) Age appropriate and 2) Individually appropriate.
 
Cooperative preschools are established and operated by parents who share the common values and philosophy in early childhood education. Under the guidance of a qualified Early Childhood Educator, parents work closely in the classroom. The philosophy is that parent and child go to school together.
 
Following the teaching ideas of Dr. Maria Montessori, this program is built upon the philosophy that “children learn from doing.” Dr. Montessori observed that children learn best when engaged in a purposeful activity, rather than being fed knowledge. “Learning occurs in an inquiring, cooperative, nurturing atmosphere.”
 
This program was originated in Reggio Emilia, Italy . The philosophy evolves around the belief that a child is a competent individual, full of potential with the power to construct his or her own knowledge through the interaction with others.
 
Based upon the principles of Rudolf Steiner, an Austrian scientist, philosopher and educator, the Waldorf philosophy aims at developing the whole child – the “head, heart and hands.”

 

What to look for in preschools ...
 

There are 5 essentials to look for when selecting preschools. All are equally critical:

  1. Licensing and Accreditation
  2. Staffing and Teacher Qualification
  3. Planned Facility & Environment
  4. Teacher to Child Ratio
  5. Curriculum & Activities

Licensing and Accreditation

A current license issued by the state is a non-negotiable. While accreditation is not mandatory, organizations such as the NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) will certify preschools that pass a rigorous evaluation. Accreditation from reputable organizations is a big plus.

Staffing and Teacher Qualification

Certificate programs, associate degrees, and/or course work in early childhood education for teachers and staff is ideal. The director should have a degree in early childhood education. Ongoing training for teachers is mandatory to keep up with the cutting edge trends in childhood education and development. Some tips to look for:

•  Low turnover ratio
•  Experienced teachers who genuinely enjoy children
•  Lively interaction between teacher and child
•  Children appear to be happy
•  Organizational efficiency

Planned Facility & Environment

The entire center should be well planned and well orchestrated for easy accessibility and comfort. A clean, bright, safe and healthy environment is fundamental. Some tips to look for:

  • A good layout
  • Adequate room for children to have their own private space
  • A broad range and generous supply of toys, games, activity books, arts & crafts, and equipment easily accessible to children
  • Calm and comfortable area for children to relax
  • Clean, children-sized toilets and hand basins with hand dryers or disposable towels
  • A well supervised and secured outdoor recreation area
  • A poster board describing the CPR, health and safety procedures mounted on a visible wall

Teacher to Child Ratio

The lower the teacher to child ratio, the stronger the program stands. The following guideline is reasonable:

  • 4:1 - Infants
  • 5:1 – 12 to 24 months
  • 6:1 – 2 to 3 year olds
  • 9:1 – 4 to 5 year olds

In addition to a low ratio, the size of the group is also a factor. Bigger is not always better. A large preschool with adequate staffing is not always better than a smaller size preschool with ample staffing. Usually, the bigger schools come better equipped, but your child may prefer to socialize in a smaller setting.

Curriculum & Activities

Preschools have different focus and mission. Some are academically oriented, others are developmental (click here for the differences in early childhood philosophy and mission). Nevertheless, every child needs access to interesting activities. Look for a daily and weekly activity schedule from the preschool. A well planned program should provide variety, a structured group activity, and opportunities for children to choose what they would want to do.

Other Things to Look For:

  • How do they handle problem behavior?
  • How long has the staff been in this current preschool?
  • Will the primary teacher keep in touch with me on a regular basis?
  • Do the children look happy and engaged? How do they interact with one another? Do they have a pleasant demeanor?
  • Look for evidence of good hygiene practice. Do the children have clean hands? Runny noses? Dirty nails?
  • What snacks and drinks do they provide?
 

  • Get referrals! Look up references!


  • Ask parents of children currently in the preschool


  • Ask parents of children who attended in the past and why they left


  • Do the teachers and staff seem helpful and eager to answer your questions?


  • Take your child with you and observe how he/she responds to the setting, teacher(s) and other children


  • Do the children look happy?


  • Ask your child how he/she would like to spend a day in this place


  • Will your child be safe in this environment?


  • Are parents welcome to observe, participate and get involved in the class?


  • Trust in your intuition and feelings