Determine what is important to you in a school: Is it the hours the school is open or the number of extracurricular activities the school provides. Whatever is most important for you, write it down. Those key components are crucial when evaluating a school to ensure it’s the perfect fit for your family.

Set up a family tour: Tour several different preschools so you can see programs in practice. Then try to picture your child there. If you can imagine your child enjoying the activities or playing on their playground, chances are they’re going to love it.

Pay attention to that first impression: Parents’ intuition is usually right. How do you feel when you walk in the door? Is the space clean, bright, and inviting? Do you feel welcome?

Look for signs of community: Does the school provide community events, family events, or outings? Do they have outlets for you as a family member to be involved in your child’s schooling? If so, what are those opportunities?

Staff are supported — and seem happy: Working with young children is a tough job, and teachers are more successful when they receive regular professional development and planning time, not to mention a livable wage and benefits like health insurance and paid time off. Don’t be afraid to ask the director about these factors and about teacher turnover rates.

Health & Safety Policy: Choosing child care in the middle of a pandemic is tricky. You need the help, but you’re worried about safety. Ask about the school’s health & safety policy. What resources and safety technologies do they use to keep their students safe.

Set up a visit for your child: In the end, if your little one isn’t happy at school, you won’t be happy. Schedule a time for your child to visit the classroom and meet their teacher before starting. Watch how teachers interact with your child and how your child responds to them.