Preschool Open Doors

I still remember the first time I walked into a preschool open doors event. My daughter was three, and we had just moved to the neighborhood. The nervousness of the unknown was thick in the air, but the warmth of the classroom and the laughter of the children eased my fears. Preschool open doors events are more than a way to peek behind the curtain—they are a lifeline for parents trying to find the right fit for their child. These events give us a chance to see the environment, meet the teachers, and ask the tough questions we might not think of until we're there.

Preschool open doors is a term that’s often used in education circles, but it’s more than just an event—it’s a bridge between families and the early learning community. I’ve attended multiple of these events over the years, and each one has felt different. Some were chaotic with a hundred families at once, while others were intimate and personal. The key is knowing what to look for and how to make the most of the experience. It’s not just about finding a school; it’s about finding a community that feels like home for your child. ($59, education.mn.gov)^[1]

At my last open doors event, I was struck by the number of parents who walked in with a checklist in hand, ready to interrogate every corner of the classroom. I’ve been there, too. But as I’ve learned, the best preschools don’t need to prove themselves—they simply let the environment speak for them. The teachers, the materials, the way the children interact with each other all tell a story. Preschool open doors can be a stressful event, but with the right approach, it can also be one of the most insightful and rewarding experiences of your parenting journey.^[2]

What to Look for at a Preschool Open Doors Event

As of September 2026, when I attended my first open doors event, I had no idea what to expect. I walked in with a clipboard and a list of questions, but the real insights came from observing the children. I noticed how they interacted with each other, how they responded to the teachers, and how engaged they were in the activities. These observations told me more than any checklist ever could.^[3]

One of the most important things to look for is the classroom environment. Is it clean? Are the materials accessible to the children? Do the teachers seem to know the names of every child? These details may seem small, but they speak volumes about the school’s commitment to safety, learning, and personal growth.

I also paid close attention to the way the teachers interacted with the children. Were they patient? Did they encourage creativity and curiosity? I found that the best preschools are those where the teachers don’t just teach—they guide, support, and inspire.

Part of our Craft preschoolers guide.

The Importance of a Welcoming Environment

I remember one school where the open doors event was conducted with such grace and warmth that I immediately felt at ease. The teachers greeted each child by name, and the classroom was filled with soft lighting, cozy rugs, and colorful books. It was clear that this was a place where children could feel safe and comfortable.

A welcoming environment is crucial for young learners. If a child feels anxious or out of place, it can hinder their ability to learn and grow. A preschool that invests in a warm, inviting atmosphere is one that prioritizes the emotional well-being of its students.

I’ve seen firsthand how a simple gesture—like a teacher hugging a child after a tough day—can make a world of difference. A preschool that creates a sense of belonging is one that’s worth considering.

A child doesn’t need a perfect classroom—they need a place where they feel like they belong.

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What to Ask During the Event

During one of my visits, I asked the director how the school handled conflict resolution between children. Her answer was thoughtful and detailed, and it told me a lot about the school’s values. I learned that they used a method called ‘peace table,’ where children could talk through their disagreements in a safe and guided way.

I also asked about the daily schedule and what kind of activities the children engaged in. The director explained that they had a balance of free play, structured learning, and outdoor time. This gave me a clearer picture of the school’s approach to education.

Another question I asked was about how the school communicated with parents. I was told that they had weekly updates and parent-teacher meetings. This level of communication was reassuring and gave me confidence that I would be kept informed about my child’s progress.

“I still remember the first time I walked into a preschool open doors event.”— Glueseason editors

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The Role of the Teachers and Staff

One of the most telling moments during an open doors event was when I saw a teacher sit with a child who was crying and gently guide them through their emotions. This moment was powerful and showed me the compassion and dedication of the staff.

The best preschools have teachers who are not only qualified but also passionate about their work. They should be able to explain their teaching methods and philosophy clearly and enthusiastically.

I found that the most successful schools were those where the teachers seemed to know each child’s name, interests, and even their favorite colors. This level of personal attention is a strong indicator of a school that values its students.

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How to Assess the Curriculum and Learning Goals

At one open doors event, I noticed that the children were engaged in a math activity where they were counting blocks and sorting them by color. The teacher explained that this was part of their daily curriculum, which focused on hands-on learning and exploration.

I asked about the school’s long-term learning goals, and the director shared that they emphasized social-emotional development, literacy, and numeracy. This gave me a clear idea of the school’s approach to education.

I also noticed that the school used a mix of traditional and modern teaching methods. They had a large reading corner with books from different cultures, which showed a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

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The Importance of a Safe and Secure Environment

During one open doors event, I noticed that the school had a clearly marked entrance and exit. The teachers were trained in emergency procedures, and there was a policy in place for unauthorized visitors. This attention to detail gave me confidence that my child would be safe.

I also asked about the school’s security measures, and the director explained that there were cameras in all common areas and that all visitors were required to sign in. This level of security was reassuring.

A preschool that takes safety seriously is one that values the well-being of its students. From the moment you walk in, you should feel that the school is a safe and secure place for your child.

A preschool that doesn’t prioritize safety is a preschool that may not be worth the risk.

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What to Do After the Event

After one of my visits, I made a list of the schools I had attended and ranked them based on factors like curriculum, teacher interaction, and classroom environment. This helped me narrow down my choices and make an informed decision.

I also reached out to other parents who had attended the same school and asked for their opinions. This gave me a different perspective and helped me understand the school’s reputation.

Finally, I scheduled follow-up visits or calls with the schools I was most interested in. This allowed me to ask more questions and get a better sense of the school’s culture and values.

Preschool Open Doors