If you’ve ever wondered, “can I tour a preschool before enrolling?” the answer is a definite yes, and it’s one of the smartest steps you can take in choosing the right school for your child. Touring gives parents a firsthand look at how a preschool operates day to day, the classrooms, the teachers, and, most importantly, the atmosphere that will shape your child’s early learning experiences. Whether you’re visiting during an open house or scheduling a private tour, being prepared helps you get the most value out of your visit. Here are five essential things to do when touring a preschool or private school.
1. Review the school’s website before you visit
Before setting foot on campus, spend time on the school’s website. It’s the best way to familiarize yourself with the basics, the school’s mission, curriculum, programs, extracurricular offerings, and more. By reviewing this information ahead of time, you’ll:
- Arrive with a clear idea of what to expect.
- Identify specific programs or details you want to learn more about.
- Avoid spending your tour time on information that’s already online.
This preparation also helps you ask deeper, more personalized questions, the kind that reveal what truly sets one school apart from another.
2. Ask the right questions
A tour isn’t just about seeing the classrooms and playgrounds; it’s your opportunity to understand what your child’s day-to-day experience will be like. Asking thoughtful questions helps you determine if the school’s approach and values align with your family’s. Here are some key questions to ask, and why each one matters:
- What is your educational philosophy?
Every preschool has its own approach to teaching and learning. Some follow a play-based or Montessori model, others are catholic, there are some that focus on structured academics, and you can also find Reggio-Emilia schools. Knowing this helps you decide if the school’s philosophy supports your child’s learning style and personality.
- What are the teachers’ qualifications and the student-to-teacher ratio?
Teachers are the heart of any preschool experience. Understanding their credentials, experience, and training gives insight into the level of care and education your child will receive. The student-to-teacher ratio also affects how much individual attention each child gets. Research shows that preschools with lower student-to-teacher ratios and highly qualified teachers help children develop stronger social skills, self-regulation, and school readiness.
- What safety and health policies are in place?
Your child’s safety should always be a top priority, specially during young ages. Ask about the school’s security procedures, visitor policies, illness protocols, and how they handle emergencies. These details will reassure you that your child will be cared for in a secure and well-managed environment.
- What does a typical day look like for the students?
This question helps you visualize your child’s routine and how the day balances learning, play, rest, and meals. You’ll also get a sense of how flexible the schedule is and whether it fits your family’s lifestyle.
- How do teachers communicate with parents?
Open communication builds trust. Find out how often teachers share updates, whether the school uses an app, emails, or newsletters, and how parent-teacher conferences are conducted. Consistent communication helps you stay connected to your child’s progress.
- What do you love most about this school?
This question can be revealing, not just in the answer itself, but in how staff members respond. Their enthusiasm (or lack of it) will tell you a lot about the school culture and what makes it special.
3. Observe the classroom environment
As you tour, pay close attention to the atmosphere in each classroom. A preschool’s environment should feel welcoming, engaging, and safe. Look for:
- Clean, organized spaces with age-appropriate materials.
- Opportunities for hands-on learning, creative exploration, and play.
- A balance between structured activities and free time.
- Teachers who are attentive, calm, and genuinely engaged with children.
- Happy, curious students who seem comfortable and confident.
Don’t be afraid to ask if you can spend a few minutes observing a class in action. Seeing how teachers interact with children, and how children respond, can tell you more than any brochure ever could.
4. Ask about the admissions process and enrollment details
Every preschool has its own admissions process, so it’s helpful to clarify these details during your tour. If you’re wondering, can I tour a preschool before enrolling? the answer is yes, and this is the perfect time to ask about:
- Enrollment timelines and application deadlines.
- Required documents.
- Waitlist procedures and how openings are handled.
- Age cutoffs or program-specific requirements.
Getting this information early prevents surprises later and helps you plan ahead, especially if you’re considering multiple schools. You may also want to ask about how placements are decided, for example, whether the school groups children strictly by age or considers developmental milestones and learning styles.
5. Inquire about tuition and financial options
Preschool is an investment, and it’s important to understand all costs upfront. During your tour (or afterward, if you prefer), ask for a detailed breakdown of tuition and fees. Find out:
- What’s included in tuition (meals, materials, extracurricular activities, field trips, etc.).
- Whether there are additional costs for extended care or summer programs.
- If the school offers payment plans, sibling discounts, or scholarships.
- Being clear about the financial commitment allows you to compare schools fairly and make a decision that works for your family.
Remember, a school tour is the perfect moment to observe and find a community where your child will feel safe, inspired, and supported. If you feel welcomed, see engaged children, and sense genuine enthusiasm from teachers and staff, that’s a great sign. Before leaving, take a few minutes to jot down your impressions. What stood out? What felt right, or didn’t? These notes will help when you’re comparing schools later.
So, can you tour a preschool before enrolling? Absolutely! And you should. Visiting in person is the best way to see how a school’s values, teachers, and environment align with your child’s needs. By preparing ahead, asking thoughtful questions, observing the classrooms, and clarifying admissions and financial details, you’ll walk away with a clear picture of whether the school is the right fit. Choosing a preschool is a big decision, but touring helps turn uncertainty into confidence. When you find the place where your child’s curiosity is nurtured and their joy for learning shines through, you’ll know you’ve found the right match.
