Questions to Ask at Preschool Tour
Important questions to ask during a preschool tour to evaluate safety, curriculum, staff qualifications, and whether it's the right fit for your child.
1What is your teacher-to-student ratio?
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What is your teacher-to-student ratio?
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Why this works
Lower ratios mean more individualized attention and better supervision for your child.
2What are the qualifications and training requirements for your teachers?
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What are the qualifications and training requirements for your teachers?
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Why this works
Ensures staff have proper education and credentials to provide quality early childhood education.
3What is your curriculum and educational philosophy?
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What is your curriculum and educational philosophy?
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Why this works
Reveals whether their approach aligns with your values—play-based, Montessori, academic-focused, etc.
4How do you handle discipline and behavioral issues?
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How do you handle discipline and behavioral issues?
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Why this works
Shows their approach to guidance matches your parenting philosophy and keeps children safe.
5What are your safety and security procedures?
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What are your safety and security procedures?
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Why this works
Verifies who has access to the building, how children are supervised, and emergency protocols.
6How do you communicate with parents about their child's day and progress?
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How do you communicate with parents about their child's day and progress?
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Why this works
Ensures you'll stay informed about your child's experiences, development, and any concerns.
7What is your policy on sick children?
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What is your policy on sick children?
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Why this works
Clarifies when you need to keep your child home and how they handle illnesses to protect all children.
8Are meals and snacks provided, and are they nutritious?
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Are meals and snacks provided, and are they nutritious?
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Why this works
Shows whether they offer healthy food options or if you need to pack meals.
9What is a typical daily schedule like?
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What is a typical daily schedule like?
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Why this works
Reveals the balance between structured activities, free play, outdoor time, and rest.
10How do you support children with different learning needs or developmental delays?
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How do you support children with different learning needs or developmental delays?
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Why this works
Assesses their ability to accommodate and support children who need extra help.
11What is your potty training policy?
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What is your potty training policy?
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Why this works
Clarifies whether your child must be potty trained or if they assist with the process.
12How much outdoor play time do children get each day?
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How much outdoor play time do children get each day?
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Why this works
Ensures children get adequate physical activity and time in nature.
13What is your staff turnover rate?
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What is your staff turnover rate?
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Why this works
High turnover can disrupt children's attachments and indicate poor working conditions.
14Are you licensed and accredited? Can I see your most recent inspection report?
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Are you licensed and accredited? Can I see your most recent inspection report?
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Why this works
Verifies they meet state standards and have no serious safety or health violations.
15What is your tuition, and are there additional fees?
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What is your tuition, and are there additional fees?
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Why this works
Provides complete cost transparency including registration, supplies, field trips, and other charges.
16Do you offer flexible scheduling or part-time options?
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Do you offer flexible scheduling or part-time options?
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Why this works
Determines if their schedule works with your family's needs.
17How do you help children transition into your program?
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How do you help children transition into your program?
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Why this works
Shows they have strategies to ease separation anxiety and help children adjust.
18What is your policy on parent involvement and volunteering?
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What is your policy on parent involvement and volunteering?
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Why this works
Reveals whether parents are welcomed into the classroom and how involved you can be.
19How do you prepare children for kindergarten?
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How do you prepare children for kindergarten?
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Why this works
Ensures they're building academic, social, and emotional skills needed for the next step.
20Can you provide references from current parents?
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Can you provide references from current parents?
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Why this works
Allows you to hear honest feedback from families already enrolled.
Best Practices for Preschool Tours
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Visit Multiple Schools
Tour at least three preschools to compare environments, philosophies, and teaching styles before deciding.
Observe During Regular Hours
Try to visit when children are present so you can see staff interactions, classroom dynamics, and facility in action.
Trust Your Gut
Pay attention to how the environment feels. Does it seem warm, organized, and child-focused?
Bring Your Child If Possible
Watch how your child responds to the space and whether staff engage warmly with them.
Question Sequences
The Safety and Quality Sequence
The Educational Approach Sequence
The Practical Logistics Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Choose Based on Convenience Alone
A nearby location is nice, but safety, quality care, and educational approach matter more.
Don't Ignore Red Flags
If staff seem frazzled, facilities are dirty, or children seem unhappy, keep looking.
Don't Skip Reading the Handbook
Policies on discipline, sick days, and tuition are often detailed in writing. Read before enrolling.
Don't Assume All Preschools Are the Same
Educational philosophies vary widely. Make sure their approach aligns with your family values.