5 Tips for Choosing the Right Preschool in Philadelphia
The Importance of Choosing the Right Preschool in Philadelphia
Choosing the right preschool is a meaningful step in your child’s early education. In a city like Philadelphia—full of diverse neighborhoods and options—it's important to find a program that prioritizes your child’s unique needs and supports your family’s daily routine. Whether you're just starting your search or narrowing down your options, here are five tips to help you choose the right preschool in Philadelphia.
1. Identify What Matters Most for Your Family
Before diving into applications, take time to define your priorities. Are you looking for small class sizes, individualized attention, or a balance between structure and creativity? Do you need extended care hours, or are flexible pick-up times more important?
At Kids on 12th, we offer a child-centered, individualized education model that supports each child’s interests, learning style, and pace of development—ensuring they are seen, heard, and encouraged every step of the way. We also know how important convenience is to families, which is why we offer drop-off as early as 8:00 a.m. and pick-up as late as 6:00 p.m., giving parents and caregivers the flexibility they need.
2. Choose a Preschool with a Personalized Approach to Learning
In Philadelphia, preschool programs vary widely in philosophy. Some are academic and structured, others lean heavily into free play. What sets Kids on 12th apart is our focus on the individual child. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all curriculum, we tailor our environment and instruction to meet each student where they are—emotionally, socially, and cognitively.
Our classrooms foster curiosity, independence, and collaboration through project-based learning, creative exploration, and meaningful teacher-child relationships. This approach prepares children not only for kindergarten but for a lifelong love of learning.
3. Visit Schools in Person and Ask the Right Questions
No website or brochure can replace the experience of stepping into a preschool. When you visit, pay attention to how teachers interact with children, the classroom setup, and the overall atmosphere. Ask about daily routines, how progress is tracked, and how challenges are addressed.
During a school tour, we welcome families to observe our classrooms in action and ask as many questions as needed. You’ll see firsthand how our educators create nurturing, purposeful learning environments that respect each child’s individuality.
4. Make Sure the Logistics Work for You
Don’t underestimate the importance of convenience. Philadelphia traffic and limited parking can add unnecessary stress to your day. When evaluating schools, consider location, commute time, and the ease of drop-off and pick-up.
At Kids on 12th, we’re proud to offer an attached parking lot with free 30-minute parking—making it simple and stress-free for families to get in and out during busy mornings and afternoons. We’re also centrally located near major transit lines, making us accessible for families across Center City and beyond.
5. Ask About Communication and Family Engagement
The best early childhood programs foster a strong partnership between school and home. Ask how schools communicate with families, how often updates are shared, and whether there are opportunities to participate in the school community.
At Kids on 12th, we prioritize open, ongoing communication with families. You’ll receive regular updates about your child’s growth, classroom happenings, and upcoming events. We also host seasonal family-friendly events and invite parents to participate in classroom life throughout the year.
Explore Individualized Early Education in Philadelphia
Choosing a preschool is about more than finding a safe place for your child—it’s about finding a community that values your child’s voice and potential. At Kids on 12th, we believe every child deserves to be known, supported, and inspired.
Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a tour or ask questions about enrollment.
