12 Questions to Ask When You Visit a Preschool

A school visit is the best way to understand a preschool. Brochures and websites tell you what a school wants you to know; a visit shows you how it actually feels. But in the excitement of the day, with your child tugging at your hand, it is easy to forget what you meant to ask.

Here are 12 questions to keep on your phone when you visit preschools in Thane. You do not need to ask them all in one go. Pick the ones that matter most to your family, and watch as well as listen.

Safety and care

Who can enter the building, and how is pick-up handled?

Ask how visitors are checked at the entrance, and what happens if someone other than a parent comes to collect your child. A clear, simple answer is a good sign that the school takes this seriously every day, not just on visit days.

How do you keep the classrooms and washrooms clean?

Little children touch everything and put hands in mouths. Ask how often toys, tables and washrooms are cleaned, and take a quick look at the washroom yourself. Child-sized fittings help children become independent sooner.

What happens if my child falls ill or gets hurt at school?

Find out who gives first aid, how quickly parents are informed, and what the school's policy is on children who come in with a fever or cold. For any health questions specific to your child, your paediatrician is the best guide.

Teachers and class size

How many children are there in each class, and how many adults?

Smaller groups mean each child gets more attention, more conversation and more help when they need it. Ask about both the class size and the number of teachers and helpers in the room.

How do teachers handle tears, tantrums and sharing troubles?

Every young child has hard moments. You want to hear words like calm, patient and talking it through, rather than punishment or shaming. Notice how teachers speak to children during your visit, and whether they bend down to the child's level.

Learning and the daily routine

What does a typical day look like for my child's age group?

A good preschool day mixes free play, circle time, stories, music, art, outdoor play, a snack break and quiet time. Ask to see the timetable. Young children feel secure when the day follows a familiar rhythm.

How much of learning is play, and how much is worksheets?

For children under five, play is how learning happens. Look for hands-on materials like blocks, beads, puzzles and picture books, and ask how reading, writing and numbers are introduced as children grow from Nursery to Junior KG.

How do you support children who learn at a different pace?

Some children talk early and some climb early. Ask how teachers notice what each child needs, and how they adjust activities for a child who is ahead or one who needs more time.

Is screen time part of the day?

Many schools now use smartboards or tablets. Ask how often they are used, for how long, and for what. Short, purposeful use alongside plenty of real-world play is a sensible balance for this age.

Settling in and communication

How do you help new children settle in?

The first few weeks set the tone. Ask whether children can start with shorter days, whether a parent can stay for a while, and how teachers comfort a child who misses home. Our guide on preparing your toddler for preschool has ideas you can start at home.

How will I know how my child's day went?

Ask how the school shares updates: a diary, messages, photos, regular parent-teacher meetings or a quick chat at pick-up. Also ask who you should contact if you have a question during the day.

What are the timings, and is day care available?

Working parents often need more than school hours. Ask about class timings, holidays, and whether the school offers day care before or after class. Clear answers on fees, the payment schedule and what is included belong here too.

What to watch while you are there

Questions are only half the visit. Keep your eyes open for:

• Children who look busy, relaxed and comfortable with their teachers
• Bright, tidy rooms with children's own work on the walls
• Safe space to run, climb and play
• How your own child reacts to the place and the people

Trust your instincts. If you leave feeling your child would be happy and safe there, that matters a great deal.

Visit Cubs Gurukul in Thane

We encourage every family to visit before enrolling. Cubs Gurukul is a preschool, day care and activity centre with two branches in Thane West, at Vasant Vihar and Samta Nagar, open Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 8 pm. We are accredited by Healthy Schools India (2024-25) and recognised by QEAC as a High Performing Institution (2024-25).

Bring your list of questions and your child, and we will be happy to answer every one. Explore our Nursery programme for 2.5 to 3.5 year olds and our Junior KG programme for 3.5 to 4.5 year olds, find your nearest branch, or book a school visit. You can also WhatsApp us on 90044 72021.