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Here are some things to look for in a preschool program:

•    Teachers have four-year degrees and specific training in early childhood education

•    Teachers provide actual instruction, not just comfort and nurture

•    Teacher-to-child ratios of 1 to 3 for infants and 1 to 10 for preschoolers

•    No more than eight infants and toddlers and no more than 20 preschoolers in a single classroom

good preschool activities
Photograph courtesy of Pre-K Now.

•    Teachers crouch to eye level to speak with children, and teachers hold, cuddle, show affection to and speak directly with infants and toddlers

•    Teacher and family exchange information about a child’s development and learning progress

•    Sufficient materials and toys, accessible to children in an orderly display and at their eye-level

•    Centers that have space for safe outdoor activities

•    Frequent hand-washing by children and adults

•    Visitors welcomed with appropriate parental consent

•    Stimulating activities and structured routines

•    Children appear enthusiastic to participate in activities

•    Children are offered breakfast and lunch, as well as time to nap

•    Children participate with teachers and one another in individual, small-group and large-group activities

•    Children spend time in indoor and outdoor spaces, and engage in language, literacy, math, science, art, music, movement and dramatic play experiences.

•    Preschoolers are allowed to play independently

Adapted from recommendations made by the First Five Years Fund

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