Think about choosing a preschool the same way you would think about finding a new job or a new pediatrician for your child.
In either situation you would expect to invest lots of time and energy in making the right decision. You would ask around, go on interviews, and seek the advice of others. The same goes for preschool.
Because so much is riding on your choice — after all, you want your child to spend her days in an enjoyable and nurturing environment — you'll need to do your research. That means checking out local parenting magazines, the Internet, and word-of-mouth recommendations. Ask for referrals from other families; most people won't recommend a place unless they're truly pleased with it.