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Webb's educational background includes both early and secondary education, and business. She is married with five daughters, ranging from 3 to 23-years-old.

Webb, a Monrovia resident, said she loves how her job allows so much creativity, and enjoys just being with the kids. "They keep me laughing on a daily basis," she said.

Q: Is preschool mandatory in Maryland, and if not, do you think it's a good idea for all children to attend a preschool?

Webb: "Preschool is not currently mandatory for children in Maryland but it may become mandatory in the future. The parent is a child's first and most important teacher; however, I do feel that children absolutely benefit from participating in preschool programs. You can teach your children the basic educational foundation needed for Kindergarten at home, but it is more difficult to teach him to function in a group social environment at home. When your child goes to Kindergarten there may be 20 children in his class. Learning to take turns, following directions of an adult who is not the parent, sitting in group circle time, waiting for a turn to speak or trying an activity can be very difficult for a five-year old that has never had an opportunity to practice these learned skills. Preschool provides the setting for children to learn, practice and develop these skills. I have had kindergarten teachers tell me that when these social skills are developed there is more time to focus on the academics currently required in kindergarten."

"A preschool experience also helps the parent and child work on the natural anxiety of separation. In addition, preschools may also provide equipment, experiences, and opportunities for learning that the parent may not have considered or have time for at home. Last week, I watched the four-year-old teacher pass around, and then place the wing of a locust under a microscope that displays a picture on a screen and I was amazed at the interest, questions and curiosity of the children. This week they have milk worms in their class and they are watching them spin cocoons. Cool! But most of all preschool is fun – developing friendships, learning, playing, exploring, investigating, experimenting... what could be better?"

Q: How can a parent tell if their child is ready to attend preschool?

Webb: "Many parents notice that their child needs more activity, stimulation, or possibly desires more social connections with other children. Most preschools for children ages 3 years require the children to be potty-trained. There are some schools for 2-3 year olds that do have changing facilities and actually assist with potty-training. Being able to separate from the parent for short periods of time is also a sign that a child may be ready to begin preschool. Initial separation anxiety is normal and will end soon after the child realizes that their parent always comes back."

Q: How can parents find the preschool that will match their child the best, and are there any resources for that search?

Webb: "There are many types of preschool settings including churches, centers like The Learning Bee, local elementary schools, and Head Start programs. Preschool programs vary in the number of days offered and the length of the day. Some are offered for 2 ½ hours a day, some 4 hours, and some are full day programs. Your child may attend 2-5 days per week. The physical settings can vary greatly. Each school has its own personality and parents need to decide what setting is best for their child."

Q: What is the structure of a preschool and an average preschooler's day?

Webb: "A preschooler's day will often include small group activities, large group activities, teacher guided activities and spontaneous play. Language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, art, physical development and music should be incorporated into the curriculum. If you observed a preschool class, you would be amazed at the enthusiasm of the children and the number of transitions they make in a day."

Q: What do you think is important for a parent to look for in a preschool?

Webb: "As a parent you will want to assess how well a program meets your needs and preferences for your child. Some things a parent might consider when looking for a preschool are: the curriculum; the experience of the teachers; the security of the building; the cleanliness; is there an abundance of materials to encourage exploration and imaginative play; are basic academics being taught; the discipline policy; is there adequate space in the classroom; are the teachers kind and attentive; are the children engaged in activity; is the outdoor play area adequate and safe? Take a moment to look at the classroom from a child's perspective. Does the room encourage self-sufficiency and independence – are toys and art supplies within a child's reach; are the toilets size appropriate; is the children's art work displayed in classroom or hallways? Visit several preschools. Schedule time to observe a class or bring your child in for a visit. Directors are always willing to answer your questions and tell you about their programs."