Choosing a Preschool in Sandton: What to Check Before You Enrol
Choosing a preschool in Sandton? It’s probably far more challenging than you ever expected. After all, every preschool promises caring teachers and a safe environment. However, those descriptions don’t always tell you what your child’s day will actually look like.
5 Essential Tips for Choosing Preschools in Sandton
As you compare preschools in Sandton, look further than the prospectus and consider how each school will support your child’s confidence and transition into the classroom.
1. Look Closely at the Curriculum Approach
“Do you follow CAPS?” is only the beginning of the conversation. Ask how the curriculum is brought to life each day. Do children learn mainly through worksheets, teacher-led lessons or purposeful play? Are they encouraged to ask questions and explore ideas? Does the programme develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills together?
At The Park Pre-School, learning is age-appropriate and designed to build proper understanding.
2. Ask About Staff-to-Child Ratios
Smaller groups can give teachers more opportunities to notice when a child needs extra support or a new challenge. However, the number alone doesn’t tell the full story.
Ask how many adults are present throughout the day, whether assistants are included in the quoted ratio, and how the school manages busy periods such as mealtimes and outdoor play. Observe whether teachers appear attentive and actively involved with the children.
3. Check the Facilities and Safety Procedures
When touring a potential preschool, check that entrances are controlled and outdoor equipment is well maintained. Also ensure that play spaces are appropriate for different ages. Ask about collection procedures, first-aid training, emergency plans, illness policies, and how parents are contacted if something happens.
4. Find Out What “Enrichment” Really Means
Some enrichment activities are occasional extras; others form part of how children learn every day.
FasTracKids uses an integrated, multi-sensory teaching methodology that helps children engage with ideas in different ways. Activities such as abacus maths can support concentration, visualisation, and problem-solving. Ask how often enrichment activities take place and what skills they’re intended to develop.
5. Discuss Settling-In Support
Even an outgoing child may find the first few weeks of preschool emotional. Enquire whether the school offers a gradual settling-in process and how teachers communicate with parents during the transition. While, for many kids, it’s impossible to expect a tear-free first day, the goal should be for your child to feel safe, understood, and confident in their new environment.
The right preschool should make you feel welcome to ask detailed questions. Book a FasTracKids Sandton tour to meet the team and see our learning approach in action.