1. Separation policy – Is there a phase-in period? Are parents expected to stick around for the first few days, or does the school take a more cold-turkey approach?
2. Schedules for various ages – Does the school offer options that work for your family?
3. Typical day – Ask what a typical day is like. This will illustrate many things, including the flow of the day and the types of activities the children do.
4. Parent involvement – Some schools appreciate fundraising help, but don't want parents in the classroom. Others may have an open-door policy so parents can drop by anytime. Make sure your expectations match the school's rules.
5. Teaching philosophy – There are many different early childhood education philosophies. What approach are you looking for—something very academic, or are you more concerned about socialization and creative play?
6. Discipline – Of course, your child will never act out... but, hypothetically, how does the school handle behavioral issues?
7. Qualifications and backgrounds of the teaching staff – Are the teachers trained in early education? How many years have they been teaching? How long have they been at the school?
8. Special offerings – Does the school offer language, music, yoga, dance, etc.?
9. Tuition and additional fees – Make sure you understand the fees and if there are additional expenses on top of tuition.
10. Ex-missions – Does the school help families apply to private elementary school? If most of the students go on to the neighborhood public school, the director may not have a lot of experience with the application process. Meanwhile, if the school offers its own elementary program, the staff may not be that inclined to help.

Yes, the preschool admissions process can be stressful, but once you start to see the different programs and hone in on the ones that feel right for your family, it narrows your focus and feels less overwhelming. So going on several tours really helps.