Finding the right preschool for your child

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - If you have young kids, you know how fast they grow up. Before you know it, they will be starting school, and you'll be faced with finding the right preschool. The options can be overwhelming, but Melody Vander Weide from www.grkids.com has some pointers for parents to consider when selecting a preschool.

Location - is the school close to your home, or will it be a long commute each day? Are there other children from your neighborhood that will be attending the school as well?

Pick up/drop off set-up - Are you allowed to escort or child into the room, or do they need to be dropped off? Every school has their own set of rules, so check to make sure it is what you are comfortable with.

Schedule - how many days a week do they offer school, and what are the hours? You want something that works with your schedule and is also right for your child.

Homework expectations - is it daily, weekly, monthly? Find out what the expectations are so you aren't suprised by the commitment once your child gets started.

Field trip/special event frequency - how often do the kids take field trip, how are they transported, are parents expected to volunteer? These are all good things to ask so you know what the commitment level is for parents. Plus, it's nice to know if your children will be exposed to enrichment experiences like field trips.

Overall school vibe - make sure you visit, meet the teachers and get a vibe for what an average day is like there.  

For more tips from Melody Vander Weide, visit her website, www.grkids.com .