Understand Your Priorities
Before researching programs, clarify what matters most to your family. Different families prioritize different aspects of early childhood education.
Educational Priorities:
- • Academic preparation vs. play-based learning
- • Specific educational philosophies (Montessori, Reggio Emilia, etc.)
- • Language programs or cultural education
- • Special needs support and inclusion
Practical Considerations:
- • Location and commute convenience
- • Operating hours and calendar
- • Cost and payment options
- • Sibling policies and family discounts
Research and Shortlist Programs
Use online resources, recommendations, and community feedback to create a shortlist of programs that meet your basic criteria.
💡 Research Strategies:
- • Use our Pre-Kindy Perth directory to filter by your preferences
- • Ask local parent groups and community networks for recommendations
- • Check program websites and social media for recent updates
- • Read reviews but remember every child and family is different
Create Your Shortlist Based On:
- • ✅ Age appropriateness
- • ✅ Location convenience
- • ✅ Operating schedule
- • ✅ Cost within budget
- • ✅ Educational approach
- • ✅ Available spaces
- • ✅ Religious/cultural fit
- • ✅ Special requirements
- • ✅ Overall reputation
Visit Programs in Person
Nothing replaces seeing a program in action. Most quality programs welcome prospective families for tours and observation sessions.
📅 Scheduling Visits:
- • Contact programs early - popular programs book tours in advance
- • Ask to observe during regular program hours, not just during setup
- • Bring your child to at least your top 2-3 choices
- • Allow 1-2 hours per visit to see different activities
What to Observe During Your Visit:
Environment & Safety:
- • Clean, well-maintained facilities
- • Age-appropriate equipment and materials
- • Secure entry and playground safety
- • Adequate space for different activities
Staff Interactions:
- • Warm, responsive interactions with children
- • Appropriate guidance and behavior management
- • Professional communication with parents
- • Evidence of staff training and qualifications
Ask the Right Questions
Prepare specific questions that address your priorities and help you understand how each program operates.
🎓 Educational Questions:
- • What is your educational philosophy and curriculum approach?
- • How do you prepare children for the transition to school?
- • What assessment methods do you use to track progress?
- • How do you accommodate different learning styles and abilities?
- • What specialist programs do you offer (music, language, etc.)?
👥 Staff & Communication:
- • What are the staff qualifications and experience levels?
- • What is your staff-to-child ratio?
- • How do you handle staff turnover and continuity?
- • How do you communicate with families about children's progress?
- • What professional development do staff undertake?
📋 Practical Operations:
- • What are your policies on illness, absences, and holidays?
- • How do you handle behavioral guidance and conflicts?
- • What meals and snacks are provided or required?
- • What are the costs beyond fees (excursions, materials, etc.)?
- • How much notice is required for enrollment or withdrawal?
Consider Your Child's Perspective
Your child's comfort, interests, and personality should play a significant role in your decision. A program might look perfect on paper but not be the right fit for your individual child.
Observe Your Child's Response:
Positive Signs:
- • Shows interest in activities and materials
- • Interacts comfortably with staff
- • Seems relaxed in the environment
- • Expresses interest in returning
Concerning Signs:
- • Appears overwhelmed or anxious
- • Doesn't engage with available activities
- • Shows reluctance or resistance
- • Seems uncomfortable with the noise level or pace
🤔 Remember:
Some children need time to warm up to new environments. A single visit might not tell the whole story. Consider your child's usual adaptation patterns when making your decision.
Make Your Decision and Trust Your Instincts
After gathering all the information, trust your parental instincts alongside the practical considerations. The "right" program is one where your child can thrive.
🎯 Decision Framework:
Must-Haves (Non-negotiable):
Safety, qualified staff, appropriate licensing, basic educational quality
Strong Preferences:
Educational approach, location convenience, cost, operating hours
Nice-to-Haves:
Extra programs, facility features, special amenities