Finding the right preschool isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about making sure your child feels safe, happy, and excited to learn. The problem? Every preschool looks great on paper. Glossy brochures, well-designed websites, and carefully curated social media posts don’t tell you what really happens day-to-day. That’s why asking the right questions is so important.
Whether you’re touring schools, chatting with staff, or comparing options, these 12 questions will help you figure out which preschool is the perfect fit for your little one.
1. What’s your teaching philosophy?
Not all preschools teach the same way. Some focus on structured learning, while others encourage play-based exploration. You’ll also hear terms like “Montessori,” “Reggio Emilia,” or “Waldorf.” These are all great approaches, but the key is finding one that matches your child’s personality and learning style. Ask the preschool Auckland how they balance play and academics, how they encourage independence, and whether their philosophy aligns with what you want for your child.
2. How many kids are in each class?
Smaller class sizes = more attention for your child. The ideal preschool has a low teacher-to-child ratio, meaning your little one won’t get lost in the crowd. Ask about class sizes, how many teachers are in each room, and how they manage larger group activities.
3. What qualifications do the teachers have?
A warm, caring teacher can make all the difference. But beyond being friendly, they should also be trained in early childhood education. Ask about their qualifications, how long they’ve been teaching, and if they get ongoing training. A school that invests in its teachers is likely to have a strong, supportive learning environment.
4. How do you handle discipline?
Preschool is where kids start learning about boundaries and social skills, so how teachers handle challenging behaviour matters. Do they use time-outs, positive reinforcement, redirection? Avoid any school that relies too heavily on punishment or strict rules—preschool should be about learning, not just following orders.
5. What does a typical day look like?
Some kids thrive on routine, while others need a bit of flexibility. Find out how a normal day is structured. Is there a mix of free play, structured learning, outdoor time, and creative activities? How much time is spent on screens (if any)? Are nap times built into the schedule? Getting a sense of the daily flow will help you decide if it’s a good fit.
6. How do you keep kids safe?
You need to know that your child will be in a secure environment. Ask about entry and exit procedures, how they monitor who comes in and out, and what their emergency protocols look like. Also, check if all staff are trained in first aid and CPR—it’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
7. How do you support kids emotionally?
Preschool isn’t just about ABCs and 123s—it’s also where kids learn how to deal with feelings, friendships, and frustration. Ask how they help children manage emotions, solve conflicts, and build confidence. Some schools have dedicated social-emotional learning programs, while others weave these lessons into daily activities.
8. How do you keep parents in the loop?
You don’t want to drop your child off and feel like you have no idea what they did all day. Ask how they communicate with parents—do they send updates via an app? Regular emails? Parent-teacher meetings? A good preschool keeps you informed without overwhelming you with messages every hour.
9. What’s the meal and snack situation?
If the school provides food, check what’s on the menu. Are meals healthy and balanced? Do they cater to allergies and dietary needs? If you need to pack your own food, ask if there are any restrictions (some schools have nut-free policies, for example).
10. How do you encourage friendships?
Making friends is a huge part of preschool. Some kids naturally dive in, while others need a little encouragement. Ask how teachers support social interactions, help shy kids open up, and manage conflicts between children. You want a school that actively nurtures friendships, not just leaves kids to figure it out on their own.
11. What creative and physical activities do you offer?
A great preschool should give kids plenty of opportunities to move, create, and explore. Do they have music time? Arts and crafts? Storytelling? Outdoor play? Physical activity is crucial for young kids, so make sure the school offers plenty of movement throughout the day.
12. How do you prepare kids for primary school?
Preschool should give kids the skills they need to transition smoothly into “big school.” Ask how they introduce early literacy and numeracy, build problem-solving skills, and encourage independence. You want your child to leave preschool feeling confident and ready for the next step.
The Best Preschool? The One That Feels Right
You can ask all the right questions, but at the end of the day, trust your instincts. The best preschool isn’t necessarily the most prestigious or expensive—it’s the one where your child feels happy, safe, and excited to learn. Visit, observe, and picture your little one there. If it feels right, you’ve probably found the perfect place.