Guidelines on Selecting a Good Preschool for One’s Child Choosing a preschool for one’s child is not as hard as applying for a college degree and the key to choosing the right preschool for one’s child is in going into the process prepared that is prepared with a solid idea of what they want the child to gain from his or her preschool experience. The first step in selecting a preschool is think about the basics such as if it is important that the school be near the home, the preschool has to be near the workplace, the preschool offers childcare services in the morning, afternoon or at both times and the question as to whether they are eligible for subsidized preschool programs and if they are interested in them because they offer childcare programs with a focus on giving educational opportunities. The next step is to be familiar with the standard terms concerning what they mean and how these words can help the person choose a preschool but it is good to remember that the main difference between settings is related to the education philosophy of the school and whereas educational philosophies are many and their definitions are not cast in stone. The Montessori method has a key focus on maintaining the uniqueness of each child in the learning process and this system believes that each child learns on their own speed and educational progress should not be gauged by comparing students one to another whereas the Reggio Emilia method focuses on giving opportunities for problem-solving via creative thinking and exploration. It is good to state that the Waldorf approach places emphasis on imagination in learning and giving opportunities the chance to explore the world through their senses, analytical thought and participation whereas the bank street approach puts an emphasis on learning through many perspectives both in the classroom and in the natural world. The scope approach places emphasis on letting the child be in charge of their own learning and children are taught how to make a plan for what they would like to do each day and they are involved in the review session so as to discuss the success of their plan and brainstorm for the next day. Apart from these formal education principles knowing the difference between other regular early childhood terms which will aid the parent or guardian to make an informed response regarding the education of the child. After limiting the general area the person is interested in researching and they have an idea of the kind of philosophy that would best suit the child and by reaching out to other parents they can get some recommendations for quality settings in the area.Schools – Getting Started & Next Steps