Top 10 Questions for Your Preschool Tour

Top 10 Questions to Ask on Your Preschool Tour

Choosing a preschool is a pivotal decision in your child’s early years. It’s not just about finding a safe place while you work; it’s about setting the stage for your child’s academic, social, and spiritual development. When you tour a preschool, you’ll likely see bright colors, friendly smiles, and happy children. These are great signs—but how do you go deeper? How can you be sure that this environment will nurture your child’s mind, heart, and character?

Below are ten thoughtful questions to ask when touring any preschool, especially one like Northdale Christian Academy, where faith-based values and rigorous academics are combined. By asking these questions, you’ll be better equipped to find the preschool that perfectly aligns with your family’s needs and principles.

1. What Is the Preschool’s Educational Philosophy and Curriculum Approach?

Every preschool has a unique approach to teaching, even if they use similar resources. Some emphasize play-based learning, while others focus on structured academics. At a faith-based academy like Northdale, you’ll likely find a blend that nurtures children’s curiosity and creativity alongside Christian principles. Ask to see examples of how these methods come to life in the classroom—whether through hands-on experiments, storytelling, or guided learning centers.

A good preschool should be able to articulate how its curriculum aligns with or exceeds local or state standards and how faith-based teachings are effectively integrated into daily activities. Listen for specifics: Do they use manipulatives in math lessons? How do they introduce early literacy skills? The more details you get, the clearer picture you’ll have of what your child’s day-to-day learning experience will look like.

2. How Does the Preschool Incorporate Faith-Based Values?

If you’re exploring Christian preschools, it’s essential to understand how those values will be woven into your child’s experience. Ask about daily devotionals, Bible stories, or prayer times. At Northdale Christian Academy, for instance, teachers might use stories like the story of Noah’s Ark to discuss themes of obedience and compassion. You can also inquire about chapel services, worship songs, or any special events that bring the community together in worship.

It’s equally important to find out how the school applies these principles in practical, real-world settings. Do they encourage acts of kindness among classmates? Are there service projects that teach children the importance of helping others? A quality faith-based preschool fosters spiritual growth while remaining welcoming to every child’s pace of understanding.

3. What Are the Class Sizes and Teacher-Student Ratios?

Class size has a significant impact on the level of attention each child receives. When teachers are spread too thin, it becomes harder to provide personalized guidance. Smaller class sizes, often found in Christian academies like Northdale, allow for meaningful one-on-one interactions, tailored lesson plans, and close relationships that can boost a child’s confidence.

During your tour, ask specifically about ratios: “How many children are typically in each class?” “How many adults supervise at any given time?” “If a teacher’s out, what does that look like for my child’s daily schedule?” A lower ratio generally means your child will receive more individualized support, helping them thrive academically and socially.

4. How Does the Preschool Address Social and Emotional Development?

Early childhood education isn’t just about letters and numbers—your child’s emotional well-being and social growth are equally critical. Look for a preschool that prioritizes kindness, empathy, and cooperation. At Northdale Christian Academy, for example, you might hear about programs or activities that teach children to respect their peers, share resources, and manage their emotions in healthy ways.

Inquire about the strategies teachers employ to foster positive interactions. Do they help children talk through conflicts? How do they celebrate small acts of kindness or good behavior? If a child is shy or takes time to warm up, find out how the staff nurtures that child’s confidence. A strong social-emotional foundation prepares children not just for kindergarten but for life.

5. What Is the Typical Daily Schedule Like?

Predictable routines help young children feel safe and secure. By inquiring about the preschool’s daily schedule, you’ll gain insight into how each segment of the day is balanced between playtime, academics, snack breaks, and rest. A well-structured schedule might include a Bible lesson in the morning, circle time for group discussion, recess or outdoor play, and a creative arts period in the afternoon.

At a Christian academy, there may also be specific times set aside for devotions or chapel, helping children begin their day with calm reflection. Don’t forget to ask about nap or quiet time, particularly if your child is transitioning away from midday rest. When you see a schedule that prioritizes both learning and play, you’ll know your child’s curiosity is being harnessed in a healthy, age-appropriate manner.

6. How Does the Preschool Handle Discipline and Behavior Management?

Every preschool has moments when young children need guidance on appropriate behavior. Understanding the discipline policy is crucial for ensuring that you and the school share similar values on correction and redemption. At Northdale Christian Academy, for instance, teachers might use gentle reminders and scripture-based lessons to teach children about respect and self-control.

Ask whether the school employs time-outs, redirection, or positive reinforcement. How do they communicate concerns to parents? Is corporal punishment ever used? These are challenging but essential questions. Clear, consistent, and loving discipline methods create a safe and encouraging environment in which children can learn from their mistakes while feeling supported every step of the way.

7. What Qualifications or Training Do the Teachers Have?

The quality of a preschool often hinges on the expertise and dedication of its teaching staff. Find out about the qualifications of the lead teachers and assistant teachers. Do they have early childhood education degrees or special certifications in Christian education? Are they trained in first aid and CPR? Ongoing professional development is another key indicator that a preschool invests in staff and wants them to grow in their roles.

When touring a Christian preschool, ask how the teachers’ faith journeys influence their teaching style. At Northdale Christian Academy, for example, you might hear that each teacher shares a commitment to modeling Christ-like behavior and integrating spiritual lessons with everyday academics. The right teacher can become a guiding light for your child, so consider qualifications and character when making your choice.

8. How Are Families Involved in the Preschool Community?

Preschool isn’t just for children—it’s a valuable opportunity for parents to build lasting connections, too. Engaged parents often notice how their involvement enriches their child’s experience and fosters a more profound sense of belonging. Ask about volunteer opportunities, parent-teacher organizations, or family events.

Schools like Northdale Christian Academy might offer parent Bible studies, seasonal concerts, or service projects that invite families to work alongside their children. Does the preschool have an open-door policy, encouraging parents to visit or assist with activities? Frequent communication is also key: Find out how teachers update families about upcoming events, special projects, or areas of focus in the curriculum. When a preschool treats parents as partners, children benefit academically and emotionally.

9. What Measures Are in Place for Student Safety and Security?

Safety is a primary concern for every parent. Reassure yourself by asking how the preschool handles security protocols. Do they lock the doors during school hours? Is there a sign-in and sign-out procedure for visitors and parents? What is their approach to emergency preparedness, and how do they train their staff for unexpected situations, such as a fire drill or a weather emergency?

You’ll also want to learn about health-related policies. For example, how does the preschool handle illness or allergies? Is there a school nurse or someone certified in first aid on-site at all times? At a faith-based academy like Northdale, you might also hear about how prayer and a caring community mindset contribute to a culture of overall well-being. Ultimately, a safe environment ensures that children are free to explore, play, and learn without unnecessary worry.

10. How Does the Preschool Prepare Children for Kindergarten?

While preschool may seem worlds away from formal elementary education, it serves as a foundational stepping stone. The skills your child develops in preschool—both academically and socially—set the tone for the years ahead. Ask if the curriculum aligns with local kindergarten readiness benchmarks. Are preschoolers introduced to early reading and math concepts engagingly? Does the school encourage problem-solving and critical thinking?

At Northdale Christian Academy, for instance, the preschool might regularly communicate with kindergarten teachers to ensure they’re aligning lesson plans with future expectations. Additionally, children may learn how to follow multi-step instructions, work collaboratively on simple projects, or practice penmanship—all essentials for kindergarten success. Look for a preschool that balances fun and structure, ensuring that when your child steps foot into a kindergarten classroom, they’re both confident and well-prepared.

Conclusion

Deciding on a preschool is a significant milestone. It’s where your child first encounters the excitement of organized learning, embarks on new friendships, and experiences spiritual guidance in a group setting. Asking these ten questions during your preschool tour will help you gauge whether the environment, values, and teaching methods align with what you envision for your family.

Schools like Northdale Christian Academy shine because they combine academic excellence with genuine care for each child’s moral and spiritual upbringing. However, every child is unique, and every family’s needs are different. By inquiring about curriculum, class sizes, discipline policies, and community involvement, you’ll have a clearer sense of whether a particular preschool is the right fit.

Remember, this is an opportunity to observe not just the buildings and classrooms, but also the warmth of the teachers and the sense of partnership with parents. In the end, trust your instincts as you prayerfully seek the place where your child will flourish in heart, mind, and spirit. Through thoughtful, purposeful questions, you’re not just finding a preschool—you’re launching your child’s journey into a lifelong love of learning and a deeper relationship with God.