Pick the Right Preschool for Your Child

The facility's policy on security should be on the top of all parents' lists when they are considering enrolling their children in preschool. "Every school should have some kind of security system in place to ensure children are only released to persons authorized by their parent or guardian," says Rees, who adds that her own school building employs a system which can only be accessed with a security card.

Don't feel pressured into making a decision about whether or not the time is right for your child to go to a preschool. If you feel that your little one is just not quite ready to take that step, don't worry that your youngster will lack social and learning benefits by staying at home. You can provide these skills to your child by offering him an enriched and loving environment. Attend parent and child times at local bookstores, museums, pottery or art stores, and the YMCA or other family-friendly gym on a frequent basis. Visit your local library (or search on the Web) and check-out (or purchase) age-appropriate story books, activity workbooks, and materials that you can share with your child. All of these activities will help to develop your child's learning and cognitive abilities. These special outings and one-on-one learning sessions will not only nurture a warm and secure relationship between you and your tot, they will also further your child's social, developmental and cognitive skills.

"Take the time to look at several schools and go with your instincts. You have to find a school that is a good match for your child. A school that is good for your neighbor's child may not be right for yours," explains Rees, who adds that parents should, "decide what is most important to them and look for that when you tour a facility."

For further information, please visit:

• National Child Care Information Center
• Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families
• National Center for Early Development and Learning