when visiting a preschool look for:

*Do the children appear to be happy?

*Are the teachers talking with the children?  Is the tone of the conversation polite & respectful?

*Are there enough toys for the children?  Are they in good repair? Are there enough books?

*What is the daily schedule?

*Do the children have access to various activities throughout the day?
Look for building blocks/construction toys, pretend play toys, books, paints & other arts materials, table toys (puzzles, pegs, matching games, etc..)

*Is the classroom clean and well maintained?

*Do the children spend most of their time playing and working with materials or other children?

*Are the children expected to sit for long periods of time? 

*Do children learn numbers and the alphabet in the context of their everyday experiences?

*Do the children have to opportunity to play outside or have a large motor time everyday?

*Are the classrooms decorated with the children's original artwork?  Does the artwork look the same?  Children should be allowed to be creative with their artwork.

*How do the teachers deal with discipline?

*How does the preschool ensure safety?  

*How does drop off and pick up work?

*Is the preschool licensed by the state?