Every year in America around 4 million children start school. It is a big step for both parents and children, so finding the best preschool centers in the Fort Walton Beach area is extremely important.

So, what do you need to consider when deciding on a place for early childhood education? Here is everything you need to know about how to choose a preschool for your child.

Check the Ages of Acceptance

Different preschool education options will accept children of different ages.

For example, 88% of 5-year-olds attend preschool, while the number of 3-year-olds at preschool is much lower. Because of this, not all preschools will accept students as young as 2 or 3.

Once you know the age at which you’d like to send your child to preschool, you can use this information to narrow down your options.

Compile a List of Schools Around Fort Walton Beach

It’s a good idea to put together a list of preschool centers in the area when you start your search. Choosing a local preschool will make drop-off and pick-up easier for you. It can also help your child to settle more quickly, as they’ll feel close to home.

When making your list, try to add in key information about each preschool, such as its size and the annual fees.

Look at Teacher-Student Ratios

There are loads of great benefits of preschool. They give your child the opportunity to socialize with other kids and help prepare them for school. However, younger children need more support in learning.

This is why it’s important to look at the teacher-student ratios in each class. Ideally, there should be one teacher for every four to six students, and classes shouldn’t have more than 20 students at any one time. As children get older, the teacher-student ratio can increase, although the class sizes should stay the same.

Ask About Their School Philosophy 

While the curriculums are often similar, there can be lots of different possible approaches to early childhood education. Therefore, it is worth asking about how preschools around Fort Walton Beach approach learning and extracurricular activities.

This is also a good time to ask about any specific cultural values that their preschool holds. For example, some may incorporate religion into their teaching. It’s important that a preschool’s values are in line with your own parental beliefs.

Check Out the Preschool Timetable

Joining preschool can be a big change for any child, so you want a timetable that won’t push them too hard. Ideally, you want a day that isn’t too long and incorporates a naptime if your child is still young.

Some preschools also offer the option of half days. This can be a great way to introduce your child to preschool without tiring them out too quickly. Once your child is more settled you can always increase their days.

Find the Best Preschool for Your Child Near Fort Walton Beach

There are plenty of things to consider when choosing the best preschool for your child. Keep these in mind and you’re sure to find a brilliant school in the Fort Walton Beach area.

To organize a visit to your local learning academy preschool, get in touch now.