sion may be your first priority – to keep them safe and happy – while for older, more independent Pre-K children, education will certainly come first. Next, think about your child’s interests: Art? Science? Hands-on activities? Imaginative play? What brings out their smile? KCAA Preschools is THE resource on preschool for the Hawaiian Islands. Their President Christina Cox, suggests “thinking about the happiness of your child will no doubt, bring about a good choice. Will my child be safe and be happy? Make friends with their peers AND their teachers? The first thing I look for when visiting a school for my own family, is staff and child interactions. How are they talking? How are they interacting? Am I getting positive or negative feelings as I walk through this school and classroom?” Considering your child’s interests and personality will allow you to envision your child fitting in there and will give you an idea of what to expect in your keiki’s upcoming transition. Never be afraid to ask your teachers and directors how they attend to children exactly like yours or ask how they encourage their individuality in the classroom. Every child is wonderfully unique and your child’s personality will very much decide how the transition to preschool will go for all of you. TIME TO TAKE A TOUR Once your initial research is completed, you will have a solid list of schools that you want to interview. Schedule your tours, write down a list of general questions and while touring, bring a notebook and jot down things you notice and feel during your visit as well as any questions that pop up. By writing down teachers/directors names, current lessons, etc. you’ll be able to remember your impressions and feelings toward each location more clearly and better your decision later. President Christina Cox recommends “always remember to take any information they give you home and read it carefully. There is vital information in the “The most important person to consider in this process is your child.” NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 HAWAII PARENT 83
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