Preschool is often the first investment parents will make in their child's education. From choosing the right program to coping with separation anxiety, "Smart Start" helps parents identify quality programs that will provide preschoolers the best opportunity for a successful learning experience. Combining the expertise of psychologists, preschool educators, and pediatricians with the experiences, stories, and insights of parents who have successfully navigated this early journey with their children, "Smart Start" answers many of the most frequently asked questions regarding preschool education. With a foreword by Marianne Neifert, M.D. (Dr. Mom), "Smart Start" provides parents with a clear appreciation of the goals of early childhood education and shows how artwork, free play, storytime, and recess all encourage and develop a child's intellectual, social, and physical growth.