Choosing a School: What Most Parents Forget to Ask
On today’s episode of Play on Words from Big City Readers with Beth Gaskill I am diving into a recent consultation I had with a family about choosing a preschool. I asked a simple question: Why are you leaving your current school? The answer they gave me shocked me—and it’s one I know you’ll want to hear.
But this episode isn’t just about what can go wrong; it’s also about what parents love about schools that truly support their kids. I’m sharing insights from families on what makes a school feel like the right fit, along with my own BIG feelings about what kids really need to thrive.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
The one question I think every parent should ask when touring a school.
What parents say they love about schools that prioritize safety, connection, and growth.
Why aligned behavior policies across an entire school are critical for kids’ safety and ability to learn.
What happens to a child’s ability to learn when they’re in a disregulated state—and how schools can do better.
My own experiences as a deeply feeling kid in a Catholic school, and what those memories taught me about creating safe, supportive environments for children.
A little side note on leprechaun traps and why open-ended play should always take the lead in early childhood classrooms.
Whether you’re a parent wondering if your child is in the right school or just curious about what makes a truly supportive learning environment, this episode will give you practical insights and lots to think about.
💡 Bonus: If you’re considering my First Grade On-Demand Course, stay tuned for a special offer at the beginning of the episode! Enroll HERE
If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend! And as always, you can find me on Instagram @BigCityReaders to keep the conversation going.
