Choosing an early years school is one of the most important parenting decisions you’ll make. Here you explores the Dos and Don’ts to guide you through finding the best environment for your child’s early learning journey.
Why Early Years Education Matters
Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong learning, social skills, and emotional resilience. Studies show it improves school readiness and long-term outcomes—especially full-day programs with strong school transitions.
Here are key advantages:
- Academic readiness: Helps children master early literacy and numeracy skills.
- Social-emotional growth: Enhances confidence, empathy, and independence.
- Neural development: Early brain growth is stimulated by rich learning environments
DO: Start Your Search Early
Plan Ahead
Begin researching at least 6–12 months before your child’s anticipated start date. Top schools often have long waits.
Clarify Your Priorities
Decide what matters most—location, curriculum styles, hours, budgets, etc. Having clear criteria makes comparing schools easier.
DON’T: Choose Based Solely on Cost or Convenience
It’s tempting to go with the cheapest or closest option—but don’t settle just for convenience. Evaluate the quality of education, teacher training, resources, and school culture too.
DO: Understand Educational Philosophies
Early years education comes in many flavors. Knowing them helps you make a better fit:
Play-based & Reggio Emilia: Emphasises exploration, creativity, and documentation.
Montessori: Focuses on self-directed, sensory-rich learning.
Waldorf: Combines structure with creative arts.
HighScope: Child-initiated learning + adult scaffolding.
Make sure the philosophy aligns with your child’s learning style and your family values.
DON’T: Overlook Teacher-Caregiver Quality
What to Look For:
Qualifications: Ideally, a degree in early childhood education, certifications, plus ongoing training
Interactions: Teachers should speak gently, engage at eye-level, and respond to each child’s needs
Behavior management: Focus on guiding, not punitive discipline
DO: Visit the School in Action
Tours & Observations
Visit during a regular school day—not just open day. Watch how teachers and kids interact.
Talk to Stakeholders
Speak with:
- Current parents (or old ones) about communication, transparency, and child happiness.
- Students (if aged 4–5), ask them what they enjoy and what they’d change.
Safety Checklist
Check facility cleanliness, childproofing, health protocols, ratios, and outdoor access.
DO: Evaluate Curriculum & Daily Routine
Ask for a sample schedule to understand daily flow—academic time, free play, outdoor sessions, rest, and meals.
Ensure the approach includes learning through play, as this supports holistic brain development.
Balance structured time with flexibility and individualized learning.
