What to Ask at the Preschool Fair

SARATOGA SPRINGS — We all want to give our children the best start we can, but how we decide to do that can vary widely. That’s why 24 preschools are coming together to share how they approach educating our children during these vital early years. “It really flushes out if we’re a good fit for each other. It’s more time up front, but it really is best in the long run,” said Richard Youmans, Admission Director for Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs. During the Saratoga Springs Area Preschool Fair, held at the Saratoga Springs Public Library, on Saturday, January 21, 2017, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., school representatives will be on hand to provide information and answer questions about how their educational philosophy aligns with your family’s values. Some of the schools, including the event’s co-sponsor Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs, will simultaneously be hosting an open house which allows parents a more in-depth follow-up tour through the school, a chance to see the classrooms, and to speak with teachers. In the eight years that Waldorf has been hosting the fair, they’ve found asking specific questions can ensure whether a school is the right fit for your child. If you have a child ready to go into preschool this year, or really want to plan and get a jump start on where they’ll be in a few years, the representatives at the fair are happy to answer your questions. “If you wait too long, you can be put on a waiting list. Waiting until a week before school starts is definitely too late,” advises Youmans. Questions to Ask When You Go: 1. The School Day: What is the school’s educational philosophy and how does it affect the typical day? What is the daily routine? How does it incorporate academics, indoor and outdoor playtime, meals and snacks, screen-time and rest-time? 2. Teachers: What are the teacher’s qualifications? What is the student-to-teacher ratio? What is the teacher turnover rate? 3. Safety & Discipline: Who is ensuring that my child is safe while in your care? Are you certified in in case of an emergency? How do you approach discipline? Is each teacher within the school following their own method, or is there a school-wide approach being used? 4. Parent Involvement: When are parents encouraged to participate and how? If parents have limited availability, are there other ways to stay connected? 5. Special Considerations: What is the school’s expectations in regard to potty-training, behavioral or academic learning challenges, or if a child has special needs? 6. Expenses: How much is tuition? How do costs compare to the philosophy of the school, what your child will be learning, and the school’s alignment with your family’s values? For more information go to https://www.sspl.org/ or visit http://www.waldorfsaratoga.org/