The ABC's of a Great Preschool

Last week, a friend asked me to describe, in 15 words or less, what makes a great preschool. (Ha!) Those of you who know me are probably snickering right about now, knowing full well how difficult it is for me to convey ANY thought in under 100 words, (let alone 15).

It got me thinking, though, about the characteristics of a great program.  What are the keys factors of a school?  I generated a little list for you.


A Great Preschool:

Accepts all children as integral members of their community.
Believes in children's abilities and potential.
Challenges children to scaffold their thinking.
Documents experiences through various means to help children reflect upon their learning.
Encourage children to take calculated risks. 
Fosters creativity. 
Generates excitement in learning through hands-on experiences
Helps families navigate the world of parenting through conferences, newsletters, seminars and blogs.
Invests in their teachers with respectful wages, benefits and professional development opportunities.
Joins together families, teachers and community to enhance the children's experience.
Kindles curiosity with authentic materials that are interesting and relevant.
Listens to children. Really, really listens.
Models honesty, fairness, respect, kindness and compassion.
Never, ever ever steps on a bug. 
Observes children to better understand their ideas and abilities.
Preserves the wonder of childhood, every day in every way.
Questions children when they do not know the answer, leading to clarity and better understanding.
Reflects the diversity and values of it's families.
Supports children's interests with materials, resources and encouragement.
Turns "I dunno" into "I have an idea."
Understands. 
Visualizes the children as competent and capable.
Waits through the quiet so children can think.
eXpects amazing things to happen.
Yeehahs and yays several times a day.
Zeros in on the wonders and fascination of childhood. 

There you have it.  The A-Z of a great preschool.  Not sure if I would be able to pick just 15 words. If you had to narrow this down to only 15, which ones would you pick?