Local Prekindergarten Options Explained

Universal Prekindergarten Family Guide

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Finding the Best Program for Your Four-Year Old

Parents of 4-year-olds have a range of educational options. Attending a high-quality early education program prepares children to develop critical social-emotional, cognitive, and early academic skills to be ready for kindergarten and beyond. Finding the best options for your child takes time and research. You know your child best.

High-Quality Early Learning

High-quality programs create early learning experiences, environments, and relationships that support children's growth and development. A high-quality early learning
experience:

• Fulfills your child’s curiosity
• Positively impacts academic performance through play-based learning
• Provides structure, balanced with choices
• Builds your child’s desire to learn
• Provides opportunities for physical activity
• Builds social and emotional development by increasing your child's positive behavior, self worth, and confidence

Families Should Keep in Mind

• Cost of the program and/or family eligibility for services
• Parent and child expectations
• Before and after school care
• Length of day
• Hours, months, and holiday operations
• Student support services
• Readiness of your child
• Transportation options
• Meal options

Questions to Ask

• Is there a daily plan to guide learning?
• Does the schedule include play time, rest time, learning activities?
• How many children will be in the program?
• Are additional adults available to help in the classroom?
• What are the opportunities for family involvement?
• How does the outdoor play environment support physical development?
• Does your child have the option of flexible seating when engaged in learning?
• Does your child communicate personal needs like using the restroom?
• How do the teachers support the child’s home language?
• How is children’s play integrated into daily learning?
• Do teachers and children engage in conversations?
• Do the children appear to enjoy the learning?
• Does the learning environment include centers, i.e., library, dramatic play, etc?