Where Do We Begin?
If you’re a young parent searching for your child’s first school, you’ve probably found yourself deep in a rabbit hole of Instagram reels, parenting forums, and long conversations with fellow moms and dads. With so many philosophies, approaches, and promises of “best for your child,” it can feel overwhelming. Should you go with a play-based program or something more structured? Is Montessori better than Reggio Emilia? And what even is Waldorf?
Choosing the right early learning program isn’t just about picking the prettiest classroom or the trendiest school name—it’s about finding the best fit for your child’s personality, learning needs, and your family’s values. Here’s a more down-to-earth look at what really matters when you’re on this journey.
1. Understand Your Child’s Needs and Your Family’s Values
Start by asking yourself: What kind of learner is my child? Do they love imaginative play, or are they more task-oriented? Are they shy or outgoing? Every child is unique, and recognizing their personality and developmental stage can help you narrow down options.
Think about your values too. Are you looking for a school that encourages independence, or one that emphasizes collaboration? Some families prefer child-led learning environments like Montessori or Reggio Emilia, while others feel more comfortable with structured academic routines.
2. Curriculum & Teaching Philosophy
Take time to understand the school’s teaching philosophy. Here are a few common approaches:
- Montessori: Focuses on independence, self-paced learning, and mixed-age classrooms.
- Reggio Emilia: Centers on project-based learning and creativity, with a strong emphasis on child interests.
- Waldorf: Highlights imagination, nature, and rhythm, with less focus on academics in early years.
- Academic/Traditional: More structured and teacher-led, with an emphasis on reading, writing, and math readiness.
- Play-Based: Encourages learning through exploration, games, and free play.
No one approach is universally best—what works wonders for one child might not suit another.
3. Teacher Qualifications and Class Size
A great curriculum means little without caring, skilled teachers. Ask about the teachers’ training in early childhood education. Are they equipped to support not just academic growth, but also social and emotional development?
Also, consider the teacher-to-child ratio. Smaller class sizes often mean more individual attention, which is especially valuable in those early years.
4. Environment and Facilities
Visit the school if you can. Is the space clean, safe, and inviting? Do classrooms look like places your child would enjoy spending time in? Are there areas for outdoor play, art, and exploration?
A good learning environment should spark curiosity and allow children to move, explore, and express themselves.
5. Communication and Parental Involvement
Strong parent-school communication is a huge plus. How often will you receive updates? Do they hold parent-teacher meetings or workshops? Does the school welcome your input or involvement?
You want to feel like a partner in your child’s learning, not a bystander.
6. Assessment and Progress Monitoring
Ask how the school tracks student growth. Do they observe milestones or use formal assessments? What methods do they use to communicate progress to parents—reports, portfolios, or regular parent meetings?
A thoughtful program monitors a child’s development holistically—not just cognitive, but also social, emotional, and physical. This ensures your child is supported across all areas of growth.
7. Flexibility and Support Services
Kids grow at different paces, and a great early learning program knows this. Ask how the school supports children with different learning needs, whether advanced or delayed. Are there learning support staff or access to specialists like speech therapists or counselors?
Flexibility in learning paths can make a huge difference, especially if your child needs extra help—or extra challenge.
Choosing With Confidence
At the end of the day, trust your gut. You know your child best. If a school feels right—if the environment feels warm, the teachers feel invested, and your child walks in and lights up—you’re probably on the right track.
If you’re looking for a more step-by-step guide to help make the decision easier, you might find our post on “5 Steps to Finding the Perfect Preschool for Your Child” a helpful next read. It breaks down the search process into manageable, thoughtful actions you can take today.
Final Thought: One Step at a Time
Choosing your child’s first school is a big decision, and it’s okay to feel unsure. Take your time, ask questions, and listen to your instincts. No program will be perfect, but many can be wonderful with the right support and mindset.
And remember: what you’re really doing is laying the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. So take a deep breath, enjoy the process, and know that you’re already doing a great job just by caring this much.
References
- 8 Best Types of Preschool Programs for 2025
- How to Pick a Preschool | Harvard Graduate School of Education
written by Shandy Lwieka,
Tutor Time Indonesia
