Questions for a Preschool Teacher

Starting preschool is a milestone for both child and parent. Your child will gain independence, teamwork and social skills and be exposed to the world of school education and rules. You will let go and place trust in your child's teacher to teach, care and offer appropriate discipline on behavior in school. Knowing what questions to ask your child's preschool teacher can help ease your child into school and determine whether you are placing your child in the right hands.

  1. Class and Daily Schedule

    • Ask about class size and the typical daily schedule. This will tell you the teacher-pupil ratio and what types of activities your child will experience day to day. You will know if the preschool is meeting your standards of care and if it is offering a variety of learning and play activities.

    Discipline

    • Preschool children do not always know right from wrong, and they need adults to provide guidance and explanation on why certain behaviors are not acceptable. Understanding how your child's preschool teacher disciplines children is important to ensure your child continues to learn and grow in the appropriate direction. Ask questions such as "How would you handle a child coming into class crying?" and "How are children addressed when they are caught hitting another pupil?"

    Development

    • During the school year, parent-teacher conferences may provide an update on how the child is doing in school. Matters discussed include development, behavior, play, social skills, language, cognitive skills and physical aspects. Your child may behave differently at home than he does in school when surrounded by peers. Ask the preschool teacher what areas your child may need to work on and how, or if your child has grown in the classroom in particular areas.

    Health and Safety

    • Questions of health and safety relate to the cleanliness of facilities and toys, how frequently preschoolers have outdoor play, fire safety plans and rules, and emergency evacuation plans. These types of questions ensure your child's good health and that staff is prepared to respond to an emergency. Ask how shared play areas are cleaned, how often children have outdoor play, and information on emergency plans and how you would be informed in an emergency.

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