Finding the Right Preschool

My 3-year-old son is not doing well at his current preschool. Two of his teachers are very stern and strict — not too friendly either. (I’ve visited the classroom.) My son is afraid of them and is always crying and unhappy. They don’t help him join in the activities either. The lead teacher doesn’t think he is afraid of them specifically — but of everything. She has suggested counseling. I wanted my son moved to another class, but the director refused. At a different preschool last year, the teachers were gentle, and he had no problems. Unfortunately, there is no room for him at that school.
Should I keep him in this school or look for another where he’d have to adjust to a new environment? And how can I tell what kind of teachers he’ll get? — Unhappy Child
Answer: When parents are considering preschools, they need to visit the schools and see how the teachers and students interact. If they think their child would be happy at a school, they are probably right. You’ve been to this school and seen that it is not right for him. It doesn’t make any sense for him to stay and have a miserable experience. Put his name on the wait list at the previous preschool. Also, start looking for a new preschool. Try to find gentle teachers who show they know how to involve all children in the activities.