Choosing a preschool is one of the first major decisions parents make about their child’s education. Visiting in person is the most reliable way to evaluate a school, but knowing what to pay attention to during that visit can make the difference between a confident decision and a guess.
Here are six things worth looking at closely.
1. Teacher-to-Student Ratio
This is one of the clearest indicators of how much individual attention your child will receive. A lower ratio means each teacher can spend more time with each child, respond to needs more quickly, and build a real relationship with every student.
Ask the school what their ratios are for your child’s age group, and compare them against California’s licensing requirements. Some schools meet the legal minimum; others maintain ratios well below what is required, because they believe smaller groups produce better outcomes.
2. Cleanliness and Safety
Walk through the classrooms, bathrooms, nap areas, and outdoor spaces. Are surfaces clean? Are materials organized and in good condition? Do you see evidence of a regular cleaning routine, or does the space feel neglected?
Also look at safety basics: are cleaning supplies and sharp objects stored out of children’s reach? Are outdoor play structures age-appropriate and well-maintained? Does the school have a clear check-in and check-out process that controls who can pick up your child?
3. Teacher Qualifications and Staff Stability
Ask whether teachers are licensed or credentialed. In California, preschool teachers are required to hold permits issued by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing, but the level of permit (assistant, associate, teacher, master teacher) varies.
Also ask about staff turnover. High turnover is a red flag: it disrupts children’s routines and relationships, and it often signals internal problems (low pay, poor management, burnout). A school where teachers stay for multiple years is generally a healthier environment.
4. Age-Appropriate Curriculum
A good preschool curriculum is not a scaled-down version of elementary school. It should be designed specifically for the developmental stage of the children in the room, balancing structured learning activities with play, exploration, and social interaction.
Ask what a typical day looks like. Is there a clear daily schedule? Are activities varied (art, music, movement, stories, outdoor play)? Does the curriculum adjust for different age groups within the school, or does every classroom follow the same plan regardless of the children’s ages?
5. Outdoor Space and Physical Activity
Young children need regular opportunities to run, climb, jump, and move their bodies. This is not optional enrichment; it is essential for physical development, coordination, and emotional regulation.
Look at the outdoor play area. Is it large enough for children to move freely? Is the equipment age-appropriate and in good condition? Does the school schedule outdoor time every day, or only when the weather is perfect?
6. Communication with Parents
Ask how the school communicates with parents about their child’s day, progress, and any concerns. Is there a regular schedule of parent meetings or conferences? Can you reach a teacher or administrator easily if you have a question?
A school that communicates proactively, not only when something goes wrong, is a school that treats parents as partners rather than customers.
Using This Checklist
These six criteria are a starting point, not a complete evaluation. Every family has additional priorities based on their own values, schedule, budget, and child’s personality. But if a school scores well on all six of these basics, it is likely a school that takes its responsibility to children seriously.
About Rosemead Education Center
At Rosemead Education Center in Rosemead, CA, we welcome families to visit and evaluate us against any checklist. We have maintained low teacher-to-student ratios, daily cleaning routines, licensed teachers, age-specific curriculum, spacious outdoor play areas, and regular parent communication since 1984.
Qualifying families can enroll with full tuition coverage. Call us at (626) 572-8201 to schedule a visit.