Finding the Perfect Preschool: Everything You Need to Know
Choosing a preschool is one of the first big decisions you’ll make as a parent, and it matters. Let’s make this journey easier, together. Discover the benefits of enrolling your child in top preschools. Ensure a strong foundation for their future. Read our guide to get started today!
If you are reading this, chances are you are starting the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) journey of choosing a preschool for your little one. At Kido, we understand that it is a big decision, and guess what? You are not alone! Every parent wants to find a place where their child feels happy, safe, and supported. So, let us walk through this together.
Preschool is where your child takes their first steps into learning, social life, and independence. That is why it is essential to do your research, ask questions, and trust your instincts. After all, no one knows your child better than you.
With so many options available today, picking the best preschool can feel like a challenge. You may be wondering about safety, location, budget, and how involved you are expected to be. Selecting one that truly supports your child’s growth and development, not just academically, but also socially and emotionally, is the key to future success. In this blog, we will guide you through the key things to look for when considering preschool admission.
Starting small, dreaming big: The right time for preschool
Children usually begin preschool between the ages of two and six. This is a crucial stage for brain development. Every child is different, and some may be ready sooner than others.
If your child is around or approaching two years of age, it would be a good time to begin exploring preschool options, as most children begin to show preschool readiness by this age. They begin to build key social, emotional, and thinking skills that will help them thrive in a structured learning environment. By age three, many children can also follow simple instructions, enjoy group play, and express their thoughts and feelings with others.
These early experiences help them to adjust to school routines and lay a strong foundation for future learning. Choosing the right time to start preschool requires a balance between the child’s readiness and your comfort as a parent.
Also Read: The Key to Your Child’s Future: Why Early Years Education Matters
Choosing the right curriculum: What works for your child?
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a preschool is the teaching approach or curriculum the school follows. There are several types of preschools, and each offers a different approach towards early education, designed to suit a variety of learning needs and family values.
Whether your child learns best through play, exploration, or structure, understanding these academic approaches can help you make the right choice. Here is a simple overview of some popular preschool teaching approaches:
Montessori
Montessori classrooms encourage children to learn at their own pace using specially designed materials. It promotes independence, self-discipline, life skills, and teamwork through structured group activities and free exploration.
STEM-Based
This approach introduces children to Science, Engineering, Technology and Math through fun, age-appropriate activities that encourages them to explore. It helps build problem-solving, critical thinking and early logic skills.
Play-Based
A natural way for children to learn, play-based programs focus on learning through fun, exploration and hands-on activities. This approach builds active learning along with social, emotional and language skills in a relaxed and joyful environment.
Waldorf Method
The Waldorf method blends imagination and routine. It focuses on creativity, music, storytelling, arts and nature-based learning to develop a child’s emotional and intellectual well-being.
Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia encourages children to explore their ideas and surroundings through projects, collaborative learning and conversations. Teachers closely observe children and guide them based on their interests and learning needs.
Every child is unique, and so is the way they learn. While some parents prefer a structured approach, others look for creativity and flexibility to nurture young minds. A child's progress along development milestones and future academic excellence is best achieved when choosing a holistic development approach. The best preschools in India follow a blended model by combining the best of several methods to support a child’s overall success.
For example, Kido follows a blended, research-based approach that draws inspiration from multiple early education philosophies, such as Play-Based Learning, Reggio Emilia, Montessori and STEM-based education, rather than adhering strictly to just one.
Therefore, when choosing a preschool, think about your child’s personality and natural interests to select the right learning environment.
Want to know what makes our curriculum stand out? Visit https://kidoschools.com/in/in-curriculum to explore how Kido blends global best practices to create the perfect learning experience.
Your essential preschool checklist
Choosing the right preschool can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be. If you are wondering what matters, here is a simple checklist to help you focus on the most important things. From safety and teaching quality to play areas and cleanliness, these factors can guide your decision:
Highly qualified and caring teachers
Teachers play a big role in shaping your child’s early learning journey. That is why it is important to choose a preschool with educators who are not just qualified but also genuinely love working with young children.
In other words, look for a preschool where teachers are trained in early childhood development and who know how to connect with kids in a kind, supportive way. A great teacher will create a warm and welcoming classroom where your child feels safe, confident and excited to learn.
A strong and balanced curriculum
A good preschool should follow a well-planned curriculum that supports your child’s overall development. It is not just about learning numbers and letters; early education should also focus on building social skills, creativity, emotional awareness and curiosity.
Look for a preschool that offers a mix of structured learning and playful activities. This balanced approach helps lay a strong foundation for your child’s future academic success and personal growth. Happy children with focus on holistic growth and development are more likely to have appropriate brain development in the early years.
Low adult-to-child ratio in classrooms
When classrooms have fewer children, teachers can give more time and attention to each child. A low adult-to-child ratio also means your child is more likely to get the support they need to grow, learn and feel confident in a secure environment. Ensuring the child feels safe and secure is essential to nurture young minds and advance the child's progress.
Moreover, it helps teachers understand each child’s personality, pace and learning style, which makes learning more personal and effective.
Parent reviews and recommendations
One of the most reliable ways to understand how good a preschool is? Hear it from other parents. Reading reviews and talking to families who are already part of the school can give you real insight into what to expect.
A preschool with a strong reputation is usually one that consistently provides a safe, supportive and enriching space for little learners. Positive word of mouth is often a sign you are making a good choice.
A location that works for you
Where the preschool is located can make a big difference in your daily routine. Pick a school that is easy to reach, whether it is close to your home, workplace or on the way.
It helps reduce travel time and makes drop-offs and pick-ups less stressful for both you and your child. Besides this, consider practical things like transportation options and school timings to ensure they align well with your schedule. A convenient preschool location means smoother days and more peace of mind.
A safe and child-friendly space
As parents, it is natural to worry. Will my child be safe at school? What if they fall? What if they bump into something or get hurt while playing? These thoughts stay with us until we see our little ones return home with a smile.
That is why child-safe infrastructure is a must. Your child’s safety is the top priority, and the preschool you choose should reflect that. Look for a school with secure entry and exit points and childproofed areas. Discuss the safety measures that the school takes during your visit.
Classrooms should have age-appropriate toys, learning materials, and organized spaces where children can play, explore, and learn comfortably. A safe and welcoming setting allows your child to feel confident and happy as they begin their learning journey.
Spacious play areas
Play is a big part of early learning. A preschool with a safe, open play area helps children grow physically, emotionally and socially. Even in crowded cities, outdoor space is a must-have, not a luxury. It is where children learn, explore and enjoy their early years to the fullest.
Clean environment
Hygiene is more important than ever, especially when it comes to young children. At this age, kids are still learning basic habits like hand washing and cleanliness, so it is up to the preschool to provide a clean, safe and well-maintained environment.
Thus, make sure the preschool you choose for your child follows strict hygiene practices, including regular sanitization, health checks and deep cleaning. A clean space not only keeps children healthy but also gives parents peace of mind.
Further Read: Embracing Daycare Facilities: Exploring the Shift in Parental Choice in India
Ready to choose the perfect preschool? Start today with Kido!
- With locations across India, the UK, USA and China, Kido is trusted by thousands of parents worldwide.
- Our play-based preschool curriculum, inspired by global teaching methods, is tailored to each child’s growth and holistic development.
- We are conveniently located, maintain a low adult-to-child ratio with higly qualified teachers and ensure safety with CCTV, biometric and secure entry records.
- Several corporates have preferred Kido as a business partner to provide daycare services for their employees.
So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today to fill the preschool admission form, schedule a preschool tour and experience the Kido difference for yourself!