Positive word of mouth is a powerful endorsement. If a preschool has a certain buzz, ask parents what they like about it.
Ask each school you're considering for a list of parents whose children have attended the school. Call them and ask specific questions. Don't just ask whether they like the preschool: Ask exactly what they like about it and what they don't. If their child no longer goes to the school, ask why.
You may also want to call your state's Better Business Bureau to see whether any complaints have been filed against the school or its teachers.
Visit the school with your child. That way you can see how he and the teachers interact and whether he seems comfortable in the preschool's environment. Do the teachers seem interested in getting to know your child? Does he enjoy the activities?
"I knew we'd made the right decision based on my daughter's reaction," says Svetlana Robledo, a San Francisco journalist. "Nina was brimming with joy after one day there and couldn't stop talking about all the things she was learning and doing."
Get on the waiting list
If the preschool of your dreams has no openings, don't despair. Put yourself on the waiting list, and while you're at it, write a letter explaining why you like the school so much. It won't guarantee you a place, but it can't hurt to let the school know how enthusiastic you are about the program.
In the meantime, if you've applied to more than one school, it's likely you'll have other options to consider.
Go to our main preschool area.