This question hits hard, doesn’t it? Whether you’re a first-time parent or doing this preschool selection for the second or third time, choosing the right preschool often feels like a mix of detective work, intuition, and a leap of faith.
But don’t worry, we’re about to decode the mystery together. And no, it’s not just about having pretty classrooms or serving gluten-free snacks. Choosing a preschool means choosing your child’s very first classroom, where curiosity is sparked, little brains begin absorbing math and language, and tiny social lives bloom.
Let’s break it all down and help you pick a preschool that truly nurtures your child’s early growth.

Why Preschool Matters More Than You Think
According to research, 90% of a child’s brain development happens before the age of 5. Your preschooler is learning faster and more deeply now than they will for most of their life! In fact, the benefits of early childhood education go far beyond ABCs and 123s. It’s about building the foundations of how your child learns — including critical thinking, emotional control, creativity, and problem-solving. Curious why toddlers even need preschool in the first place? Check out this blog to understand how it sets them up for future success.
Start With One Simple Question: What’s Right for My Child?
There’s no universal formula, because every child is beautifully different. Is your child shy or social? Do they love structure, or are they little explorers who thrive in hands-on environments? Are you more focused on academic readiness or social-emotional development? Start by writing down a few goals. What do you hope your child gains from preschool? Confidence? Friendship? A head start on reading and math? Once you’re clear on your goals, you’ll be better equipped to evaluate programs beyond just glossy brochures.

Key Factors to Consider Before Making a Choice
Let’s break down the big ones, because sometimes what schools say and what they do can look a little different.
1. Curriculum That Builds Thinking, Not Just Rote Learning
A solid early childhood education program should stimulate your child’s natural curiosity. Look for a curriculum that includes math activities for preschoolers, sensory play, early literacy, storytelling, and problem-solving, not just alphabet drills.
Preschools like i-Maths Canada use brain-based methods that introduce math for preschoolers in fun, engaging ways, such as puzzles, shapes, patterns, and logic games that feel more like play than a classroom task.
2. Teacher-Child Interaction
Observe how teachers talk to children. Are they warm and patient? Do they encourage independence? Do they kneel to the child’s level to make eye contact? These small gestures reveal big things about how respected and safe your child will feel. Also, ask about teacher training. Are they certified in early childhood education? Do they understand age-appropriate learning styles?
3. Class Size and Ratio
This one’s simple: the smaller the group, the more personal the attention. A low child-to-teacher ratio is especially important at the preschool level, where emotional support and guided exploration matter more than textbook knowledge.
4. Environment and Safety
While no one’s expecting a mini Harvard, the space should feel clean, welcoming, and organized. Are there safe, well-lit areas to explore? Is outdoor play a regular part of the day? Are materials accessible to tiny hands? Do children’s creations decorate the walls? Be it safety protocols, hygiene, emergency exits, or visitor policies – don’t be shy about asking.

5. Parental Involvement
A good preschool doesn’t just educate your child; it partners with you and your child. Look for regular communication, newsletters, photo updates, and open-door policies. Ask if parents can attend events or contribute to activities. You’re not just enrolling your child, you’re joining a mini community.
Trust Your Instinct
Sometimes, you just feel whether a place is right. The best preschools not only tick all the boxes, they make your child feel seen, loved, and excited to return every day. Watch your child during the tour. Do they seem engaged? Curious? Comfortable? Preschool should feel like an extension of home, not a tiny version of high school.

Questions to Ask on a Preschool Tour
Let’s make your visit count. Don’t leave without asking:
- What’s your educational philosophy?
- How do you introduce math and logic to preschoolers?
- What does a typical day look like?
- How do you handle tantrums or separation anxiety in kids?
- How do you track and share developmental milestones?
- Do you provide progress reports?
- What training do your teachers have in early childhood education?
Want a broader look at how preschool builds skills beyond math? This blog unpacks it beautifully.
The Math Piece: Why It Matters Early
Math? In preschool? Absolutely. Preschool math isn’t about equations; it’s about patterns, classification, sequencing, number sense, and reasoning. These foundational concepts shape the way your child thinks, not just in math, but in problem-solving across subjects.
Schools like i-Maths understand that math for preschoolers can and should be introduced in age-appropriate, play-based ways. When kids engage with math activities for pre-schoolers, they’re not just learning numbers; they’re training their brains to think logically and creatively.

Common Myths That Hold Parents Back
Let’s bust a few:
- “My child is too young for preschool.”
Ages 2.5–5 are prime years for early learning. Waiting too long might mean missing crucial developmental windows. - “Preschool is only about academics.”
Not true. The right preschool nurtures emotional intelligence, empathy, confidence, and curiosity, all while introducing academic concepts gently. - “My child won’t adjust.”
Most children take time to adjust, and that’s okay! A good preschool supports both you and your child through the transition.

What the Right Preschool Feels Like
In the end, the “right” preschool isn’t just the one with the fanciest brochure or the longest waiting list. It’s the one where your child feels safe, inspired, and excited to return. It’s where learning feels like play, and teachers feel like extended family.
At i-Maths Canada, we believe in empowering children to ask, explore, count, question, and imagine. The unique programs at our early learning centres blend academic readiness with joyful learning, creating a space where every child is free to grow in their own way.
Ready to give your child the perfect start? Discover our preschool programs near you, or inquire now to schedule a visit!