A checklist for your school visit

Brochures and websites are often beautifully designed to catch your eye, but the actual atmosphere on a regular school day is what reveals the truth. If possible, try to arrange a visit during normal school hours rather than just attending an Open House where everything has been meticulously staged.

Things to Observe

• Do the children look engaged and genuinely happy? What do their expressions tell you?
• How do teachers speak to and interact with the children when they think no one is watching?
• Overall cleanliness, safety measures, hygiene of the restrooms, and outdoor play areas.
• Ask to see the actual classrooms currently in use, not just the "showroom" spaces reserved for visitors.
• Traffic conditions, safety protocols, and the pickup/drop-off chaos during mornings and late afternoons.

Questions to Ask

• What is the teacher-to-student ratio, and what is the teacher turnover rate?
• What are the school's policies for supporting children who struggle to adjust or those with special needs?
• What are the communication channels, and how frequently does the school update parents regarding a child's progress or emergencies?
• Where do graduates from previous cohorts typically go to continue their education?
• A scenario-based question: "If our child is unhappy coming to school, how does the school handle it and support them?"

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• Staff evading or avoiding direct questions regarding hidden costs or student behavioral outcomes.
• The school refusing or making excuses not to let you see the actual ongoing classes.
• High staff and teacher turnover rates that seem unusually frequent.
• Being pressured or rushed into making an immediate decision or putting down a deposit on the spot.

After your visit, it is highly recommended to jot down your notes immediately while your thoughts and feelings are still fresh. You can then bring the details of multiple schools to Compare side-by-side on our website to see the pros and cons clearly. If you are still unsure where to begin, let our Match feature help filter and find the schools that best fit your family's needs first!