As parents, we all want the best for our children. We want them to grow up happy, healthy, and well-educated. One way many parents choose to give their children a head start in their education is by enrolling them in a Florida Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten or VPK.
Florida introduced their Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten program in 2005, which is a free, universal initiative. Eligible families had the option to enroll their 4-year-old children into either a 540-hour school year program or a 300-hour summer program.
Since getting its start, the VPK program has grown to become the second-largest state-funded preschool program, with more than 3/4 of Florida’s 4-year-olds attending.
Here are some of the advantages of enrolling your child in a VPK program:
Many experts agree that early childhood education provides numerous medium and long-term benefits to children enrolled in pre-k programs.
According to the National Education Association, children who participate in early childhood education programs are:
- Less likely to be held back a grade
- Less likely to be identified as having special needs
- Are more prepared academically for later grades
- Are more likely to graduate high school
- Are higher wage earners
Let’s dive deeper into the benefits of a VPK program.
Encourages Brain Development
Science tells us that one of the most critical periods of brain development occurs between the ages of 2 and 7 because two-year-olds have twice as many synapses as adults.
These connections in the brain are where learning occurs, so it’s crucial to your child’s long-term development that you give them the tools and experiences at a time when they can learn twice as fast.
Some people look at pre-k programs as precursors to “real” learning, but some research suggests that certain skills like learning second languages or becoming proficient in music are more difficult for children that don’t participate in early education activities.
Putting your child in a Florida VPK gives them the tools they need for their brains to grow along positive pathways, which sets them up for future success.
Social Skill Enhancement
Placing children in a structured educational environment at a young age helps them develop social skills by teaching them how to interact with others.
Children also learn the importance of socializing and abiding by rules by playing games, as well as good manners.
Structured education at early ages helps kids remain focused and attentive for longer periods, which better prepares them for the rigors of higher education.
Encourages a Love of Learning
Kids are naturally inquisitive, and their education begins at home as they learn games and creative ways to process information, which makes education fun for them.
Enrolling your child in a Florida VPK allows them to continue these creative learning methods, helping them to take that love of education with them throughout their lives.
Prepare Kids for Higher Education
Children who participate in high-quality early learning programs score higher in high-school readiness tests, develop better language skills, and experience fewer behavioral problems than children who don’t.
Furthermore, kids that enroll in VPK and other pre-k programs are better prepared for kindergarten and generally have an easier time socializing, and have improved math and language skills.
Supports Physical Development
Structured play goes a long way to increase your child’s motor skills and coordination, contributing to positive health and fitness outcomes.
- Florida is one of the leading states in pre-kindergarten access.
- In the program year 2019-2020, 71 percent of 4-year-olds in the state attended a VPK program.
- In 2019-2020, 171,199 children were served by 6,501 private, public, and charter schools and private care facilities offering VPK.
- Eligible children must live in Florida and be 4-years old before September 1 of the current year.
Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academies are nationally renowned, and their academy wants the best for the children in their care. Kids ‘R’ Kids Avalon Park provide a safe, state-of-the-art facility with dedicated, highly trained teachers and staff.
For more information about enrolling your child in a Florida VPK, contact Kids R Kids Avalon Park at 407-306-9035 or fill out their online form. You can also join us on Saturday April 23 from 10-2p at Kids R Kids Learning Academy of Avalon Park for their VPK Round Up Event!
✏️ Ask questions
✏️ Tour the facility
✏️ Meet the owners and teachers
✏️ Bring in your child’s current VPK VOUCHER
✏️ Explore the convenient class options that are available
✏️ Learn about VPK extended Care options
✏️ Be prepared to complete the Kids ‘R’ Kids enrollment forms
Can’t make it to the event? Join us in our stories on Instagram and Facebook! They are taking over for the day!!
