RE: Preschool Questions
Nicole, unfortunately you REALLY do need to start this winter to find a place for next fall. I was really lucky to find a place that I am very happy with at the last minute. Most places do their main enrollment in Jan/Feb, but then they also have cancellations in the late summer.
Here are some things I really like about Sarah's program.
1) They have a "younger twos" program, so that she isn't in the same class as kids that are almost 3. Due to her language delays, I don't think she would do nearly as well in that type of environment. You may want to find a place that has an "older twos" program, which might be what I do with Sarah next fall.
2) For the 2's they have LOTS of schedules: M/W, T/Th, MWF, T/Th/F . I like having Sarah in 2 days a week, and then she and I also do a mommy&me class on Wednesday.
3) The preschool is very low-key, not a high-powered "the preschool to get my kids in Harvard" kinda place.
4) Potty training isn't required for ANY age group.
5) They do lots of physical activity. Every day that the weather permits they are outside running around on their very nice, small playground. They also have a music or "dance" teacher come in.
6) They encourage parent participation in the school and the preschool committee, but it isn't required. (While I hear that co-op schools are great, personally I don't have the time. But that might be something that you would really enjoy and you could put on yout resume later.)
7) The teachers have been there for years (the school has very low staff turnover), and they are very loving and affectionate with the kids. Sarah gives her teachers a big hug and kiss when she arrives and when she leaves.
8) Its cheaper per hour than having a babysitter!
From my point of view its a total win-win. She's getting a chance to experience lots of new things in a safe and nurturing environment. I'm getting a guilt-free break two days a week. It has revolutionized my life and my attitude.
Good luck!
Beth, mom to older DD (8/01) and younger DD (10/06) and always missing Leah (4/22 - 5/1/05)