Frequently Asked Questions about VPK

Florida is known as a hot vacation spot for families across the country but what most people don’t realize is it is also a great place to live! Florida was actually one of the first states to offer free prekindergarten programs to ALL children 4 years of age living anywhere in the state. Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten, or VPK, helps build a strong foundation for future academic success using educational material corresponding to the specific stages of development early in a child’s life.

At Kids ‘R’ Kids, we field many questions regarding this incredible, free program so we’ve put together an FAQ sheet to help parents understand the benefits and eligibility requirements of the state’s VPK program. Below are the most common questions we hear:

How old does a child need to be in order to be enrolled for the Florida VPK program?

According to The Office of Early Learning, Children who turn 4 years old on or before Sept. 1 of the program year are eligible to attend VPK. Also important to note is that children born between Feb. 2 and Sept. 1 may attend VPK either that program year or postpone attending until the following program year as long as the child has not yet been admitted to kindergarten.

If my child has started kindergarten, are they still eligible to postpone VPK?

Unfortunately, no. Once a child is enrolled in kindergarten they are no longer eligible for VPK according to section 1002.53 of Florida Statutes.

Where can I access the VPK handbook (From OEL-VPK 07)?

When enrolling your child for VPK at https://familyservices.floridaearlylearning.com/, you will have the opportunity to download the VPK handbook. You may also access it at: http://www.floridaearlylearning.com/providers/provider_menu/forms_for_sr_and_vpk_providers.aspx

What documentation is needed when enrolling a child in the VPK program?

Parents will need to provide proof of a child’s age which can include birth certificate, baptism certificate that includes duly attested transcript, insurance policy that has been in force at least 2 years, passport, school records, immunization records, or a valid military dependent identification card. You will also have to provide proof of residence for the state of Florida including a utility bill, insurance policy, pay stub, or government documents all received within the last 12 months. Finally, you will need your child’s Social Security number.

When do VPK sessions start?

You can choose a school year program or summer session depending on your preference. The school year program includes a Fall / Winter schedule. Fall program generally begins no earlier than the first day of public school, but may begin as late as October. The Fall program generally ends between April and late May. There is also a Winter program which begins in January and ends in June. Both deliver 540 instructional hours. For parents who prefer a summer session, the VPK Summer program begins any time after May 1st and includes 300 instructional hours.

How do I find a VPK provider?

One of the most important decisions you will have when enrolling your child into the state’s VPK program is to choose a competent and qualified VPK provider.

We have an excellent VPK program here at Kids ‘R’ Kids Avalon Park. In fact, we have an entire building dedicated just to the VPK students. Our Enrichment Center offers both a Full-Day program and the state funded Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK). The Full day Pre-K session is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and includes the state funded VPK program. One look at our Enrichment Center, specifically designed and dedicated to the VPK and Pre-K students, and you will understand our commitment to excellence in early childhood education. We have created a dynamic, fun and secure environment, supported by our professional teaching staff.

If you would like more information on how your child can benefit from enrolling in the state’s VPK program or how Kids ‘R’ Kids can help your child get “kindergarten ready” with our VPK program, contact us today.