Spring is here and that’s when all young families start their search to find preschools for their children. Will they be ready? How to find a good school? What will they learn? What makes a good school?

When conducting a search, there are more things to look for other than “what they will learn?” There is also “how they will learn?." When the word “school” is brought up most people go directly to academics, but for preschool, it’s more than that. It’s about socialization and making friends. It’s about learning independence and making choices. It’s about fitting in and learning how to work in a group, cooperatively. And it’s about having FUN.

This is a child’s first time away from home and the idea of school should have a positive impact. They shouldn’t dread the idea. They should love school! Here are some things to think about when touring schools this spring.

1. Are the rooms clean? A classroom should be clean enough to focus and messy enough that you know the children are allowed to explore all that is offered.

2. Are the children allowed to make choices? Or are the teachers directing the activities? A good preschool will have a combination of child and teacher directed activities. It’s important for children to feel as though their opinions matter.

3. Are the teachers approachable? On your tour of any preschool, you want to be able to speak directly with the teachers and learn their personal philosophy on teaching. Sometimes a director's philosophy differs from the teacher with whom your child will spend their day.

4. Are there a variety of toys and learning materials? A good school will provide areas for exploring arts and crafts, science experiments, places to dress up and pretend, have a circle for learning as well as regular old toys… blocks, musical instruments and a stuffed toy to cuddle.

5. Are outside exeriences offered? Field trips are a great way to learn about the world around a child.

Bottom line: Are the children currently in the classroom happy? Are they busy? Smiling? If they are, you’ve found a great school! If not, continue your search.

These things and more are what sets Skribbles Learning apart from other area schools. Our teachers are caring, loyal and dedicated to the young lives of children. Come out and see for yourself at our open house on April 18 and April 29.

The teachers will be there and activities will be provided for children. Skribbles honestly does have such incredible teachers and they are eager to meet more children! Feel free to ask a question or email me directly about Skribbles or preschool readiness in general. I’d be happy to help!