How to Choose the Best Preschool or Child Care Center for Your Child

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With the growth of early learning programs across the U.S., families now have more preschool options than ever. States like Colorado and New Mexico are channeling funds into private preschools and child care centers, while others, such as California, are expanding preschool through public schools. Some cities are also introducing universal preschool programs. In the 2022-2023 school year, a record 35% of 4-year-olds and 7% of 3-year-olds were enrolled in public preschools.

Research underscores the advantages of high-quality preschool, especially for children from low-income families. These children enter kindergarten better prepared, need fewer special education services, and are less likely to repeat a grade. Long-term, children who attended preschool are less likely to face incarceration and tend to enjoy better health outcomes than those who did not.

Historically, preschool was either for families who could afford it or for those who qualified for public programs. Today, many more families have access to a variety of preschool options. But how can parents choose the right one? Below are key factors to consider when selecting a high-quality preschool.

Take a Tour

Visiting a preschool in person offers valuable insights. Pay attention to how the adults interact with the children, the organization of the space, and overall cleanliness. In high-quality preschools, teachers are actively engaged, often on the floor with the children or asking questions that promote learning. Amanda Batts from the National Association for the Education of Young Children suggests avoiding places with “disorganized learning spaces.” While preschool environments are lively, they should still be orderly, with accessible toys, books, and learning materials.

Ask About Teachers and Curriculum

Inquire about the educators’ qualifications and pay. Steven Barnett of the National Institute of Early Education Research notes that many preschool teachers hold bachelor’s degrees or teaching certifications similar to K-12 educators. Others may be working toward a Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate, which involves coursework, practical experience, and classroom observation.

The curriculum is equally important. A high-quality preschool should have a clear curriculum guiding teachers in planning play-based learning activities. Watch out for worksheets, as they might indicate instruction that is not developmentally appropriate. Instead, experts recommend preschools that focus on social-emotional learning through play, helping children develop their social skills while learning basic academic concepts.

Don’t Get Caught Up in Fancy Philosophies

While some preschools may advertise specific educational philosophies, like Montessori, Waldorf, or Reggio Emilia, the most crucial aspect is that a preschool has a cohesive and well-thought-out learning plan. Not all schools strictly adhere to these philosophies, so focus more on the quality of the overall curriculum.

Outline Your Priorities

When selecting a preschool, families often have different priorities. Consider factors like the preschool’s hours, location, and cost. Amanda Batts advises families to rank their priorities to find a preschool that aligns with their most important needs, even if it doesn’t meet every single criterion.

Explore Financial Assistance Options

Many families may qualify for free preschool or child care subsidies without realizing it. Recent expansions in public preschool programs and financial aid for private preschools have increased accessibility. Federal programs like Child Care Aware of America can help connect families to available assistance. The organization’s website offers a tool to find local agencies that can guide you through the options.

Check Licensing and Accreditation

Once you’ve narrowed your options, confirm that the preschools you’re considering are licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state but generally address health, safety, and staffing standards. Some states offer exemptions for small, home-based programs, so make sure to research these details.

Additionally, many states award child care centers that exceed licensing requirements with extra recognition, like Alabama’s star system, which evaluates curriculum, training, and parent engagement. The National Association for the Education of Young Children also accredits high-quality preschools, though not all centers pursue this certification.

By considering these factors, you can find a preschool that offers the best learning environment for your child.