Choosing the right preschool for your little one can feel overwhelming. You want to find a place where they'll thrive, learn, and feel safe with the grown-ups who are caring for them while you're apart. 

Scheduling a tour gives you an opportunity to ask any questions you have and get a feel for the program and teachers. Don’t be afraid to add more questions of your own to this list! A good preschool will understand why these questions are important and should be happy to answer your inquiries.

1. What's your educational approach, and how does it show up throughout the day?
Every preschool will tell you about their educational philosophy, but don’t be afraid to dig a little deeper. If they say they're "play-based," ask what that actually looks like during circle time, art projects, and free play. How do they support different learning styles? The best programs can clearly explain how their philosophy guides everything from how they set up the classroom to how they handle transitions between activities.

2. What's your approach to challenging behaviors?
Every group of preschoolers will have moments of big emotions and tricky behaviors. That's completely normal! What matters is how the teachers handle these situations. Ask about their specific strategies and find out how they help children work through difficult moments. Make sure they have clear, positive strategies that you feel comfortable with.

3. How much time do children spend playing outside?
Outdoor play is important for your preschooler’s development. Find out how much time children spend outside each day and what happens when the weather isn't perfect. Some programs have covered outdoor spaces or indoor gross motor areas for rainy days. Fresh air and physical activity should be a regular part of your child's preschool experience.

4. What do meals and snack times look like?
Does the program provide meals and snacks, or will you need to pack a preschool lunch bag every day? If they provide food, ask for a sample menu. What's their policy around food allergies and special dietary needs? You’ll want to make sure they can safely meet your family's specific mealtime preferences.

5. How do you celebrate and teach about different cultures and backgrounds?
The right preschool program will welcome and value all families. Ask how they incorporate different cultural backgrounds into their curriculum and celebrations. This helps children learn about the world around them and have early, positive interactions with the way other families do things.

Lastly, trust your instincts.

Remember, the preschool that looked perfect on paper might not feel right when you visit, and the one you were skeptical about might wind up being the perfect fit for your little one. 

The most important questions are the ones you’ll ask yourself during your tour. Are the children engaged and happy? Do the teachers appear truly invested and excited about their work? Does the space feel inviting and nurturing? Can you picture your child having a good time here?  Your child might spend a significant part of their week at preschool, so finding a place where both you and your little one feel comfortable is worth the extra time and effort. With a few good questions and a little bit of “Mom instincts,” you’ll soon find a program where your child can learn, grow, and have fun!