LOGISTICAL QUESTIONS 

• Is it a half-day or a full day program?  
• What are the hours?  
• Do the students wear uniforms? If so, what is the uniform? Do uniforms require custom logos or have to be ordered from a certain vendor, or can they be purchased at a major retailer?  
• Is there tuition? Are there any fees associated with the program?  

The answers to these questions will depend on what works best for your family.  

LEARNING QUESTIONS 

• What academics will my child learn?  
• What does academic instruction look like?  
• Will my child be assessed? How?  
• Will my child learn about social emotional health? What does that look like in Pre-K? 

Use these questions to gain a sense of how your student will be spending their time at the Pre-K program. You may be surprised to learn that even very young children learn math, science and social studies! Understanding how the program defines and teaches social emotional learning can help you understand what skills your child will be working on.  

FAMILY INVOLVMENT QUESTIONS 

• How are families involved in the Pre-K program?  
• Does the school have an open-door policy?  
• How will I be notified of challenges or conflict? 
• Am I required to attend conferences?  

How involved you will be with your student’s Pre-K program depends on many factors. But it is important that the program understands the value of family involvement. Look for a program that holds conferences to update families on their child’s academic and social emotional progress. If your child has separation anxiety or if this is their first time away from home for an extended period, an open-door policy can ensure that you and your child have a sense of comfort knowing you can visit when needed. (Programs may have certain times that are less conducive to drop by, and they should be able to communicate that schedule with you in advance.) 

SAFETY AND SECURITY QUESTIONS 

• How will my child be protected and kept safe at school?  
• What adults will be interacting with my child during the day?  

Ensuring that your child is in a safe environment – both emotionally and physically – is essential. Determine the program’s safety measures to ensure they meet you and your child’s needs.