If you have a young child and live in Florida, you’ve likely heard of VPK or seen it advertised at early childhood centers. I know I’ve seen the slogan “Free VPK” on school billboards. But unless you pull over or look it up, you’re probably wondering, what is VPK? VPK stands for Voluntary Prekindergarten, and it’s a free program for 4 and 5-year-olds who live in Florida! Our Savior has an amazing faith-based program for VPK!
Why is VPK Important?
That’s a fair question! Research shows that the most important growth and development in the brain occurs by the age of 5. In fact, in the first few years of life, more than one million new neural connections form every second! Structured early learning helps foster a child’s ability to follow directions, develop better language and reading skills, score higher on school-readiness tests, and have better social skills once they enter kindergarten. Plus, VPK can help promote a love of lifelong learning!
Enhancing Learning at Home
Remember, you are your child’s first teacher. This principle has been drilled into my brain ever since I became a parent myself. VPK enhances what a child learns at home. VPK classrooms are equipped with a developmentally appropriate curriculum, manageable class sizes, and qualified teachers to help ensure your child is successful in school and life.
Our VPK Program
Our VPK celebrates faith through music, prayer, and Bible lessons. The program also focuses on building healthy habits (important hygiene routines such as brushing teeth and washing hands); early literacy skills (learning how to identify words and write letters); mathematical and scientific thinking (learning outdoors in nature, introduction to STEM principles); social studies and art (identifying different family members and peers, crafting, and dance); and motor development (participating in active group activities).