A Parent’s Guide: What to Ask Before Picking a Preschool in Howard County
Choosing the right preschool is a pivotal decision for families in Howard County, MD. It’s more than just finding childcare—it's about nurturing growth, fostering safety, and setting a solid foundation for early learning. Your Journey Nursery & Preschool in Glenwood offers a seamless blend of nurturing care and educational excellence, but knowing what to ask during tours can ensure your child’s experience aligns with your family’s needs.
Licensing, Stability & Staff Retention
Is the center licensed, and are any infractions on record? Licensing is your first quality checkpoint. Visit your state’s childcare licensing website or look for visible documentation on site. Consistency matters: staff turnover can disrupt your child’s environment, whereas low turnover indicates a stable and supportive workplace.
Teacher-Child Ratios & Staff Qualifications
What is the teacher-to-child ratio? How experienced and qualified are the staff? A lower ratio typically means more focused attention and better support for your child. It also matters whether the staff receive ongoing professional development and how long they've been with the program.
Curriculum, Learning Environment & Daily Flow
Does the preschool follow a structured curriculum? What does a typical day look like—from play to learning to rest? Your Journey exceeds Maryland developmental standards with a play-based curriculum that integrates language, literacy, math, STEAM, and social-emotional growth through guided play and exploration.
Safety, Security & Health Policies
How does the center manage drop-off and pick-up, campus security, sick policies, and discipline? Are spells of illness communicated effectively? These practical protocols create peace of mind especially when needs arise unexpectedly.
Communication & Parental Engagement
How will you stay informed? Whether through daily reports, apps, newsletters, or parent-teacher meetings, clear communication builds trust. Ask if parents are invited to events or field trips Your Journey hosts monthly family gatherings like pumpkin picking and Santa workshops that strengthen community ties.
Logistics: Hours, Enrollment, Flexibility & Tuition
Does the schedule suit your family? Is there before and after care? For example, Your Journey operates from early morning into early evening and offers full-year programming. Asking about enrollment cycles, contract terms, tuition breakdowns, and procedures for changes can help you plan ahead.
Outdoor Time, Enrichment & Special Programming
How much outdoor play is integrated? Any special activities like music, movement, or nature-based learning? Play and time outdoors are vital for early development. At Your Journey, children enjoy varied enrichment opportunities—including music, movement classes, and abundant outdoor time.
What Real Parents in Howard County Say
We compiled our most frequently asked tour questions below from prior parents, here is what they asked:
“I asked about … naps, sick policies, potty training requirements, curriculum, outdoor vs indoor play, field trips …”
and
“What’s the teacher-to-student ratio? How are transitions handled? Balance between free play and guided play?”
“Are there cameras? Daily schedule? How is negative behavior handled? Pick-up and drop-off flexibility?”
These practical insights reflect what matters most to parents: transparency, safety, quality, and responsiveness.
Why Your Journey Nursery & Preschool Stands Out
Your Journey has earned praise for its caring staff, strong educational programming, and community-focus:
“Every teacher and staff member brings immense love… safe, supportive, fun, and loving.”
“The curriculum is well designed and age appropriate… educational, enriching, and fun… They really seek to build… a local community.”
Operating from Glenwood with convenient hours, year-round programs, and inclusive events, it’s a compelling option for Howard County families seeking both care and academic readiness.
Before you enroll your child, take the time to ask thoughtful questions that cover:
Licensing and staff stability
Age-appropriate curriculum and daily structure
Safety, communication, and health policies
Schedule flexibility and tuition clarity
Enrichment offerings and outdoor play
A preschool that values transparency, community, and developmental excellence like Your Journey can make all the difference in setting your child on a path of curiosity, joy, and growth. If you’re ready to meet, greet and have a tour, give us a call today: https://www.yourjourneyschool.com/
