Florida Voluntary Pre-K Program (VPK)
The Florida Voluntary Pre-K Program is a free, state-funded educational initiative that lays a strong foundation for Kindergarten. Our VPK program adheres to the school calendar and provides 540 hours of educational instruction. With flexible hours ranging from 3 to 4 hours per day, Monday to Friday, we ensure your child receives a quality education and is prepared for a successful academic journey.
VPK Is 3 to 4 Hours. We Cover the Rest of Your Day.
Florida VPK provides 540 instructional hours across the school year, which works out to 3 to 4 hours per day. Our schools are open 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, so your child can attend VPK and stay with us for the rest of the day in the same classroom community. Ask your school director about combining VPK with full-day care.
Is my child eligible?
We accept children who are Florida residents and have reached four years of age by September 1st of the current school year to join our Florida VPK program. We believe in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every child can thrive.
Enrollment in our VPK program is completely voluntary, and we are proud to offer this wonderful opportunity without any income eligibility requirements.
How to Apply for Florida VPK
- Apply for the Certificate of Eligibility through the Florida VPK family portal or your county Early Learning Coalition.
- Submit proof of your child’s age and Florida residency.
- Receive your VPK Certificate of Eligibility from the state.
- Bring the certificate to your Childcare Network school and we will complete the enrollment with you.
When should I register?
We welcome new students throughout the year, but due to the program’s popularity, classrooms tend to fill up quickly before the start of the school year. Registering early is essential to securing your child’s spot.
If your first-choice school is full, don’t worry; we can assist you in finding availability at a nearby location. Feel free to join our waiting list, as spots may become available during the year.
You can start the enrollment process by applying online for an enrollment appointment. Once approved, we look forward to welcoming your child into our program at Childcare Network.
What to bring to register for Florida's VPK Program:
Proof of residence (acceptable forms include)
- Current lease agreement
- Recent utility bill with your name and address
Proof of age (acceptable forms include)
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Hospital record of live birth
- Green card
- Pink card
- Federal I-94 card
Florida VPK Frequently Asked Questions
What does VPK stand for?
VPK stands for Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten. It is a free, state-funded program for Florida children who turn 4 on or before September 1 of the school year. There is no income requirement and there is no cost to families. The program is voluntary, and it is designed to prepare your child for kindergarten.
Is pre-K free in Florida?
Yes. VPK is free for every eligible child in Florida, regardless of family income. Families who need care beyond VPK hours can add wrap-around care at their school for a fee.
How many hours a day is VPK in Florida?
The school-year VPK program provides 540 hours of instruction, which works out to about 3 to 4 hours per day, Monday through Friday, following the school calendar. A shorter summer VPK option of 300 hours is also available at some locations.
What age does my child need to be for VPK?
Your child must live in Florida and turn 4 on or before September 1 of the school year they enroll.
How do I get a VPK Certificate of Eligibility?
Apply online through Florida’s Early Learning Family Portal at familyservices.floridaearlylearning.com. You’ll upload proof of your child’s age and your Florida residency. Once you’re approved, you can download or print the certificate from the portal and bring it to your Childcare Network school to register.
What do I need to bring to register for VPK?
- Your child’s VPK Certificate of Eligibility
- Proof of age, such as a birth certificate, passport, hospital record of live birth, green card, pink card, or federal I-94 card
- Proof of residence, such as a current lease or a recent utility bill with your name and address
What happens after VPK?
After VPK, your child moves on to kindergarten. Many Childcare Network schools also offer school-age programs for before- and after-school care and school breaks, so your family can stay with us as your child grows.
Find a School near you.
Teachers
Each Florida VPK classroom at Childcare Network is required to have a lead teacher and an assistant teacher. Each teacher must have passed both state and federal background checks and must be over 21 years of age. Lead teachers are required to have their BS in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education, and assistant teachers must have their Child Development Associates Certificate (CDA).
Curriculum
Our Florida VPK curriculum is approved by Florida’s Department of Early Care and Learning. It offers a well-rounded experience with a blend of engaging activities, including large and small group sessions, outdoor play, center time, story times, phonological awareness exercises, music and movement, large group literacy activities, and closing time, all thoughtfully woven into each day.
Healthy Meals
Rest assured that your child will be served a nutritious and USDA-approved breakfast, lunch, and snack each day. Our team is ready to accommodate any special dietary needs your child may have, and we encourage you to discuss these with the school’s Director for personalized support.
What if I need care for a full day?
At Childcare Network, we understand that families may require extended care beyond the standard 6.5 hour Pre-K program. That’s why we offer wrap-around care program to provide additional support for families that need it. Parents can rest assured knowing that their children will have care available from the moment our doors open until it’s time to close for the day, right at their school location.
Where We Offer VPK in Florida
Childcare Network offers Florida VPK at many schools across the panhandle, serving families in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton and Bay counties. You will find our VPK classrooms in Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, DeFuniak Springs, Valparaiso and Panama City.
Find the care that will help your child thrive.
As your child is learning and growing throughout the day, you can depend on us to provide a safe, encouraging environment. Giving parents peace of mind and children a place to thrive is what we do best!