LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Find the perfect preschool for your children at upcoming Fair


Last year's fair Photos provided

It's a question that has likely plagued most parents at one time or another: how can I find the right child care for my family? There are so many options - and yet, for many parents, finding that perfect spot when you need it most can be daunting. (A quick internet search of "preschools near me" resulted in 21 listings, some as far away as San Jose!) Lamorinda Moms, a social and support organization for moms with children under the age of 6, is doing what it can to help local families traverse their way through the many choices.

For the 22nd consecutive year, Lamorinda Moms is hosting its free annual Preschool Fair from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Nov. 7 in the gymnasium at Oakwood Athletic Club in Lafayette.

With more than 30 local preschools represented, this event is the perfect opportunity for parents to learn what's available. Each preschool will have its own table where parents can pick up a brochure, view pictures and learn about specific programs and philosophies. Teachers and administrators will be on hand to answer individual questions and offer an overview of their facility. There are preschools attending that accept children as young as six months while others may only accept toddlers; there are some offering full day programs, ideal for the working parent, and others that have shorter days. While most preschools registered are from the Lamorinda area, there will also be several from neighboring communities.

Attendees will leave with a detailed directory, providing far more information in one handout than you can find after spending hours searching online.

Kristin Oliveira Kraetsch, a co-director of Lamorinda Moms, notes that in less than two hours, families can learn enough about the local preschools to "hopefully find the perfect match for their children."

The organization has partnered with the Oakland-based nonprofit, Help A Mother Out, whose mission is "to improve baby and family well being by increasing access to diapers for families in need," so attendees are asked to bring diapers and/or diaper wipes. These will then be provided to family service organizations for distribution to families in need throughout the Bay Area, Oliveira Kraetsch said.

To register for the Preschool Fair, or to learn about Lamorinda Moms go to www.lamorindamoms.org.