Appt tomorrow- Please advise: what should I be looking for?

[newmum35]

We have an upcoming appt at a montessori school (pre through K only) and we are going to be observing the children (through windows and later maybe in the classroom too). I would like to take notes because in a few weeks we'll probably also be visiting a "regular" preschool as well and I don't want to forget what I've seen or learned at the montessori one.

What kinds of things should I be looking for or taking notes on? I guess this question would be a general question for all preschools as well, and not specifically montessori so maybe I should cross post this.

I thought others who have done this already would have some good suggestions or specific things I should be looking for that I might overlook otherwise.

[ollyoxenfree]

This may be too late, but I've just seen your post.

I would look for a clean, well-maintained building and classroom. I'd consider how well organized the classroom is - a proper place for books and materials and equipment, and students who know how to access them and how to put them back. If it's a Montessori classroom, that should be evident. Some pre-schools are pretty chaotic, and they always made me jumpy and unsettled. I can't imagine spending my days in that atmosphere, so I can't imagine asking my children to do so either.

Is there a well-maintained outdoor play area? How often is it used? I always looked for a place that offered daily outside activities, regardless of weather (except possibly in hurricanes and blizzards!).

Is there a quiet area for resting/napping?

How is snack managed? Do the children bring their own or is it supplied? What are the policies around food sensitivities, allergies and healthy eating?

The most important thing is the interaction between the teacher and the children - is it nurturing, caring, responsive? Does the teacher respect the children - or bully them? Is there the right balance between encouraging independence and providing appropriate instruction, direction and support? How does the teacher manage transitions from one task to another? How does the teacher manage disputes between children? Is there a reward/punishment system? Lots of competition? Depending on your personal view of rewards, competition, etc., you may or may not anticipate future problems.

Keep in mind that the teacher you observe may not be the same teacher for your child's class. It's better if you can get a sense of the school's overall philosophy.


Good luck!

[newmum35]

Thanks - not too late. Appt wednesday morning. There is only one teacher although there is a teachers aide in the mornings. For next year they are hoping to get a full time aide because the class will be 20-22 students (currently 18) I am not sure what to think of this ratio also.