When it comes to educating your kids, you don't want them to get left behind. Unfortunately, that can happen when you're not careful about the school you choose for your kids. If you're in the process of choosing a school for your kids, don't cut corners during your selection process. Instead, take your time, and really sort through the choices. Make sure you find a school that's the right fit for your kids, and for you. The best way to get a good feel for a school is to take a tour. Touring schools allows you to go beyond the front desk, and really get a behind-the-scenes look at the school, and how it's run. Don't just tour one school, either. Make sure you tour several different schools, including public, private, and charter schools. Here are three things you should look for when touring potential schools for your kids.

Look for Books

Kids need to read. They need access to plenty of books and literature. When you're touring schools, take a close look at the classrooms, especially for the grades that will include your kids. If books and literature are important to a school, and to the teachers, you'll see books in the classrooms; not just in the library. Before you choose a school for your kids, make sure they'll be fully immersed in books, and the written word.

Find the Focus on Math

Math isn't just a subject in class. It's a process to be learned. Some kids learn the process quickly, and others require some time and patience. When you're touring schools for your kids, make sure the school you choose focuses on the process of math, and not just the final outcome. For younger kids, you should see plenty of math manipulative's that the students can work with. For older children, you should see board work being done. You should also see an indication of one-on-one learning, such as a student desk next to the teachers desk, or a sign that identifies tutoring schedules.

Look Beyond the Name

While you're choosing schools to tour, remember to look beyond the name. Don't fill your list with schools simply because they bear the title of "private" or "charter" schools. Fill your list with schools that fit criteria for student test scores, student-to-teacher ratio, and elective courses that satisfy the arts. By looking beyond the name, you'll be able to focus on what truly matters most, finding the best school for your child.