For many years, people considered Kindergarten a child’s first step into formal learning. However, research has shown that children are capable of learning so much in the first five years of life. In fact, their brains develop quicker between birth and five than at any other time in their life.
Education, support, and enrichment are essential during children’s earliest years. Florida leads the nation in early childhood education by offering free voluntary prekindergarten (VPK) programs to every child in the state.
A high-quality VPK can prepare children for Kindergarten. Finding a quality Pasco County VPK doesn’t have to be a challenge. We have put together this guide to help you find the best VPK in the area.
Reach out to the educators at New Horizons Learning Center now to explore our VPK programs. Contact our admissions staff to schedule a tour or begin an application. We look forward to meeting you and your child soon!
What is a VPK?
Voluntary prekindergarten (VPK) programs can help prepare children to be successful in kindergarten. But what does this mean?
The VPK curriculum focuses on specific areas of school readiness. These include:
- Pre-literacy, such as letter recognition, letter sounds, and basic writing
- Pre-math, such as number recognition, counting, and simple addition and subtraction
- Social skills, including empathy, emotional recognition, cooperation, and respect for others
Research shows that children who have participated in a VPK program are better prepared for kindergarten. They often have smoother transitions into kindergarten. Many of the benefits of participating in a VPK extend throughout the elementary school years.
Choosing a High-Quality VPK in Pasco County
As a parent, you make many daily decisions about your child’s health, safety, and well-being. One of the most significant decisions you will make during your child’s earliest years is where to send them for VPK.
It is important to know your child is in a safe, nurturing environment. Choosing the right Pasco County VPK can be simple. Here are steps you can take to make the best choice for your child.
1. Research
Research local Pasco County VPK programs. Ask friends or family members for recommendations. Search online or explore local parenting groups to discover your options.
Narrow your list by considering each program’s location, hours, and educational philosophy.
2. Visit
Once you have a list of options, schedule a tour of each learning center. Ask questions, including:
- Is your program licensed and accredited?
- What experience and education does your staff have?
- What is the center’s child-to-staff ratio?
- Do you follow a regular daily schedule?
- How do teachers and staff handle discipline?
- What curriculum do your teachers use?
You may be able to find this information on the center’s website. However, talking directly with staff during your tour can be helpful.
3. Observe
While visiting each center, observe how staff members interact with children. Do the children seem comfortable asking their teacher for help? Are staff members patient and engaging with the children?
A high-quality VPK provides plenty of hands-on, interactive learning experiences. Look for developmentally appropriate toys and classroom materials. Look for a clean, well-maintained space with separate areas for play, eating, bathrooms, rest, and outdoor play.
4. Apply
Once you have found a VPK that feels like a good fit, you may apply. Each center has its own application process. Make sure you know what paperwork and additional documents you need to provide.
Benefits of Sending Your Child to a VPK in Pasco County
A high-quality VPK can prepare your child for Kindergarten. A VPK provides enrichment and educational activities that help your child build a solid foundation. They will build on this foundation throughout their elementary school years, starting in kindergarten.
Here are some of the most significant benefits of sending your child to a VPK the year before kindergarten.
Better social skills
Children build essential social skills in a VPK. Carefully designed lessons help children develop critical social and emotional awareness. Interacting with others and engaging in play-based learning can help kids get along with others and make friends more easily.
Improved cognitive skills
Voluntary prekindergarten programs follow a curriculum that boosts cognitive development. Children improve in many areas, including:
- Vocabulary
- Language proficiency
- Emotional awareness
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
Children who attend a VPK develop creativity and resilience that benefit them during kindergarten and beyond.
Better self-esteem
Children develop resilience and independence while attending a VPK. The VPK curriculum is designed to help kids make friends, improve literacy and math skills, and have fun. Children who attend a VPK often develop better self-esteem. This can help them have a smoother transition into kindergarten and better outcomes throughout elementary school.
Find a VPK in Pasco County
There are so many benefits to sending your child to a high-quality VPK. If you live in Florida and have a preschool-aged child, you are eligible for this incredible program at no cost.
Reach out to the New Horizons Learning Center staff now to learn about our VPK program or to explore our other programs.
