C.W.
I worked in preschools and I can tell you right now, the school always puts up a good front when the parent is there observing. It is hard to know for sure if a school is good or not. Perhaps getting recommendations from other parents would help. Look for a small teacher/child ratio. Also, look for schools where the parents take turns helping in the school. That way , you can observe things more closely. I think these are called coop schools. Usually the difference between day care and preschool is that day care goes on every day and preschool is more for the growth of the children , so can be just a few days a week. Avoid day care! Montessori schools are good because they teach the child about his environment and skills to use in his environment. I hope this helps a little.