Tips for choosing a pre-school

When choosing a pre-school service you may wish to consider the following:

Quality of Service
Premises
Equipment

Quality of Service

  • Is the pre-school notified with the HSE?
  • Does the service feel welcoming to both you and your child?
  • Is the environment, caring, safe and friendly?
  • Is there good interaction between staff and children?
  • Are you asked if your child has any special or additional needs?
  • Are the children properly supervised but still allowed to experience activities that are challenging and exciting?
  • Are there written programmes outlining the children’s activities?
  • Are an adequate number of adults available to supervise and care for the children?
  • Are there enough adults to provide individual attention to your child if they need it?
  • Do the staff have a good understanding about child development and working with children?
  • Do the staff play with the children?
  • What level of training and experience do the staff have?
  • What are the staff turnover rates i.e. how long have staff been working there?
  • Are you consulted about how to deal with your child should he/she become ill, distressed or angry?
  • Is it clear how challenging behaviour is managed?
  • Do the children interact well with other children?
  • What happens if staff are ill or on holidays and who replaces them?
  • Is there a respectful approach towards diversity, where each child’s individuality and sense of identity is valued?
  • Is there a policy on child protection?
  • Are you allowed access at any time to the premises to see you child?
  • Is there a suitable, nutritious varied menu available where the service provides food?
  • Can special dietary needs to be catered for?
  • Are you happy with the arrangements in place for feeding you child?

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Premises

  • Are the premises well maintained, clean and hygienic, bright and well ventilated?
  • Are the premises safe and secure?
  • Are there appropriate fire safety and child safety measures in place?
  • Is there adequate space to ensure comfort in rest and play?
  • Is there a quiet area if your child wants to relax?
  • Is there space for children to play inside and outside?
  • Is the outdoor play area secure and hazard free?
  • Are the play areas bright and cheerful?
  • Are adequate facilities provided for the safe and hygienic preparation and storage of food?
  • Are the kitchen facilities clean, hygienic with suitable wash-up, hand-washing and sterilising facilities?
  • Is the pre-school too hot or too cold?

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 Equipment

  • Does the equipment and furniture appear safe, appropriate and well maintained and clean?
  • Is there plenty of equipment and resources available for the children?
  • Are the toys, equipment and activities suitable for the different age groups?

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Last updated on: 13 / 05 / 2011


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