All parents want to put their children in the best schools possible. For most, choosing a play school is the first step towards this. A good pre-school is expected to have a big, well-maintained playground, high security, good transportation facility, trained staff, and quality resources.

But all these things come with a cost that needs to be paid in terms of fees. Parents must understand what they're paying for before making any commitment. This research during the school's admission process can help them choose the best school that suits their budget.

Here is all an overview of the typical costs of enrolling a student in a playschool.

Enrolment fees:

These are one-time payments that playschools charge parents for admitting their children. It may also be called the registration or admission fee. Some pre-schools also ask for a minimum non-refundable term fee. This depends on the school's admission process.

Refundable Security:

A refundable security deposit is a payment made to the school by the parents and is refunded once their child leaves the school provided there is no damage caused to school property etc. This amount is different in each school but is generally a few thousand rupees.

Monthly Charges:

Sometimes called tuition fees, these are monthly charges that schools charge for children to attend classes. Each preschool charges differently depending on the area, school location, class type (daycare, nursery, kindergarten, etc.), and other services provided. A school with better infrastructure such as AC and smart classrooms has higher monthly charges than those without them.

Meal Charges:

Most pre-schools these days provide a fruit break and a lunch break. Some schools provide these meals themselves. In that case, the school might charge an additional amount for meals every month. However, where the school doesn't offer meals, parents send lunch boxes with their children. It encourages children to eat all their food and have a well-balanced diet.

Entry during vacations:

Many play schools offer staggered vacation dates for students. Others offer full-year classes where attendance is mandatory. If your child attends school during the vacations, you will need to pay for these extra months in addition to the regular charges in the playschool fees.

Charges for uniforms:

Most playschools have a dress code that students need to wear at school. Most of these items are often expensive and include shoes, a backpack, raincoats, and other accessories. This might be included in the playschool fees.

Charges for extra classes:

Most playschools offer some optional value-added service that parents of students can buy if they wish to avail themselves. These include art, dance, or music classes offered through external agencies at an extra charge. This may also include additional equipment, books, or materials required by the school.

Transportation charges:

Though not many schools provide transportation, some do. If your child needs to be dropped and picked up from school, you will incur these costs.

Ownership of the school

This is a factor that you should consider while choosing a school. Most schools these days are privately owned, and thus the playschool fees tend to be on the higher side than government-run schools. As the government-run schools don't provide any extra amenities, these schools are a better option for those looking for affordable pre-schools.

It is essential to research the different preschools in your area before enrolling. Ask for the detailed fee structure break-up during the school's admission process. You want a place that will meet all of your child's needs and one with excellent value for money, so early planning can help remove some financial burdens during these formative years.