How to Choose a Preschool: A Parent’s Checklist
By First Cubby Editorial · Updated 2026-07-01
Choosing a preschool feels enormous, but it comes down to two passes: first rule schools out on the practical facts, then judge the short list on how the room actually feels. Here’s the checklist we use.
1. Start with the logistics that rule schools out
- Commute — a school you dread driving to twice a day won’t last. Map it at 8am.
- Hours vs. your schedule — half-day, full-day, and the real pickup deadline.
- Cost — tuition, plus registration, supplies, and any required deposits.
- Ages & potty policy — many programs require full toilet-training before the first day.
2. Then judge the short list on the tour
Numbers matter, but warmth matters more. On the tour, watch:
- Ratios & group size — how many children per adult, really.
- How a teacher handles a crying child — this tells you everything.
- Outdoor time & the daily rhythm — is there room to move and rest?
- Safety basics — sign-in, secure entry, clean bathrooms.
3. Questions worth asking
- What does a typical day look like from drop-off to pickup?
- How do you handle the first weeks of separation?
- What’s your approach to discipline and to potty accidents?
- How and how often do you communicate with parents?
Bring the same questions to every school so you’re comparing like for like — that’s exactly what First Cubby’s side-by-side compare is built for.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a preschool?
Rule schools out on logistics first (commute, hours, cost, potty policy), then judge the short list on the tour — ratios, warmth, and how teachers handle a crying child matter most.
What should I look for in a preschool?
Low adult-to-child ratios, warm teacher-child interactions, a clear daily routine, outdoor time, and basic safety. Watch how a teacher responds to an upset child.
What questions should I ask a preschool?
Ask about ratios, a typical day, how they handle separation and discipline, how they communicate with parents, and the full cost.
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