Did you know that Florida offers FREE preschool to all 4-year-olds, regardless of family income? It’s true! Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten, known as VPK, is designed to provide your preschooler with the skills they need for a strong start to kindergarten. Here’s why enrolling in Free VPK is an excellent choice for your family:
1. Kindergarten Readiness
VPK helps your child develop essential skills like early reading, writing, and math, ensuring they’re well-prepared for the transition into kindergarten. Using a formal curriculum, VPK also helps your child develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as well as listening skills and patience.
2. Social and Emotional Development
In VPK, children learn to interact with children their own age, build friendships, and develop communication skills, all while gaining confidence. VPK encourages social growth and helps children build self-management skills, all while in a nurturing and structured learning environment. VPK graduates are also more likely to demonstrate positive behaviors in the classroom.
3. Qualified Teachers
All VPK programs are led by qualified, trained teachers who specialize in early childhood education. They all go through a specific credentialing process and take continuing education courses throughout the school year. From North Port to Newtown, your child will be in good hands with experienced educators.
4. Flexible Learning Options
VPK gives parents the flexibility to choose where their child attends. Options include private preschools, faith-based centers, family childcare homes, and public schools, allowing you to find the best fit for your child.
5. Free and Open Enrollment
The best part, besides being free, is VPK enrollment is open year-round, so it’s not too late to sign up. If your child turns 4-years-old on or before September 1st, they qualify for VPK. 5-year-olds may enroll if they’ve never attended VPK before.
- For children with special needs, VPK-SIS is available for those with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), ensuring every child can benefit from early learning.
It’s Not Too Late to Enroll!
You can register for VPK at any time during the school year. Contact the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County to take advantage of this opportunity and secure your child’s spot! Give your child a step up in both education and life.
If you’re looking for quality childcare, our New Quality Childcare Checklist lists centers and family care homes, making it easier than ever to identify the best options for you. options. Download it now to ensure you choose the best care for your child!
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