So Where Exactly is the Best Preschool in Oakland?


2Life would be a dream if searching "Best preschool in Oakland" revealed the diamond preschool that outshines all others. To improve on this dream, let's place the diamond in a platinum setting by assuming the best preschool would also have space for your child at the schedule you need and tuition you don't mind paying. 

The reality is, you have to sift through referrals from friends and colleagues, eavesdrop on strangers, look at various school sites, spot a school on your commute, and then physically go to the selected contenders to vet out their good reputation.  

The reason search engines cannot identify the best preschool is because:

  • Children learn differently and strive in different environments.

  • Parents are unique in what they see as "quality preschool" and have varied expectations.

  • Preschools have different philosophies, communication styles, curriculum and classroom set-up. 

So how do you choose a preschool in Oakland? Here are some tips that have helped parents find their dream preschool, complete with the platinum setting:



 

Step 1: The List

Begin by compiling a list of preschool referrals from friends and colleagues. Typically they are offering these suggestions based on their own positive experience or someone they know has raved about the preschool.

No referrals to pull together? No problem, search engines are a good place to begin as well.  

Step 2: Do Your Background Research

Take a look at their website, social media posts, and parent reviews for a sense of their teaching philosophy, schedules, tuition, teacher to child ratios, and photos of their preschool space. With technology being part of everyday life, a preschool should be participating in the technology space, making it quick for you to learn who they are and what they can do for you. 

Yelp reviews can be helpful as well. Schools with five stars are tempting, but who gets it right 100% of the time?

Are you dreaming again? (smile)

Look at those preschools of course, but also look at preschools that have a disgruntled parent to see if and how the preschool responds. You learn from bad reviews. Be aware, a bad review does not always mean the school is not good; it could be that particular school was not a fit for the family.

Contact Child Care Licensing to verify they're licensed by the state. This agency does periodic surprise visits to ensure children are safe and the school is in compliance. 

Step 3: The Visit

Now that you've confirmed a few things and narrowed down your list, call the schools and ask a few preliminary questions. Once you've determined this school is worth going to, you can set-up a time to visit.

Schools have different philosophies around when prospective parents can come into their school, but don't be turned off by this. It's for the safety of the children and sanity of the staff. They also want to be able to give you full attention.

For a preschool to be the best in Oakland, it must meet the needs of YOUR family. Use the tips provided and you will be well on your way to finding your diamond in the rough.


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Have additional tips to share when looking for the best preschool? Let us know!