Finding the right preschool for your child is not easy. There are many things to consider and you obviously want to make the right decision for your child’s first step into formal education.

Here are 7 factors to consider when picking a preschool for your kid.

Curriculum
Some preschools place emphasis on a child’s overall development; while there are others where academics are given more importance. As a parent, you need to decide what kind of school environment you want for your child. The activities in your child’s school will depend on the curriculum. These activities will have a significant impact on your child’s mental, physical and emotional development.

Safety
It is important to find out safety measures at a preschool before you enroll your child. Find out if a nurse is always available for kids during school hours. What kind of safety measures are in the classrooms and at the playgrounds. How do teachers and the support staff handle emergency situations? Remember to ask these questions before you decide on a school.

Location
The location of your child’s school always matters. If you need to pick and drop your kids at their schools, you need a place that is conveniently located near your home or office.

Disciplinary Measures
A school may have a disciplinary policy that you may not agree with fully or at all. So, it is important to find out this information beforehand. Some schools follow a ‘verbal warning’ or ‘time out’ policy while others may use ‘positive reinforcements’ or other ways to discipline children. Consider disciplinary actions for kids before deciding on a school.

Level of Cleanliness
You can’t expect a preschool to be spic and span as it is, after all, a place full of kids. But do remember to check the bathrooms and the classrooms for basic hygiene.

Size of the Classrooms
If a school has too many kids and not enough teachers to manage them, it may not be the right place for your child. If the size of the classroom is important for you; remember to inquire about it prior to your child’s enrollment in the school. Every state’s educational department may have a different policy on the classroom size. But if you are not comfortable with the ratio then continue with your preschool search.

Reputation
A school’s reputation can be an important factor that can help you decide in favor of one over another. It is a good idea to not pay heed to articles about a school in the media and trust those as real signs of repute. Instead, ask other parents about their choice of preschools and what made them decide on one over another.

References from neighbors and colleagues are very useful when you are looking for your child’s school. After you have considered a school from all angles and feel completely sure about your choice, only then enroll your child there. With careful inquiry, you can find the right preschool for your child.