{"id":174000001614,"date":"2023-01-09T08:41:03","date_gmt":"2023-01-09T13:41:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kidsrkids.com\/avalon-park\/?p=174000001614"},"modified":"2023-01-09T08:43:10","modified_gmt":"2023-01-09T13:43:10","slug":"new-year-enrolling-child-in-vpk","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kidsrkids.com\/avalon-park\/2023\/01\/09\/new-year-enrolling-child-in-vpk\/","title":{"rendered":"Start Your Child\u2019s Year Off Right By Enrolling Them in VPK"},"content":{"rendered":"

Now that the holidays are behind us and life is slowly getting back to normal, it\u2019s time to think about what\u2019s in store for the new year. If you\u2019ve never considered a VPK, let\u2019s look at what it is and how enrolling your child can benefit them.<\/p>\n

What is a VPK?<\/h2>\n

A VPK is a voluntary prekindergarten program for children aged four, regardless of family income. According to Florida Early Learning\u2019s website, the Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program<\/a> prepares early learners for success in kindergarten and beyond. VPK helps build a strong foundation for school using educational material corresponding to various stages in a child\u2019s development. The VPK program started in Florida in 2005, and to be eligible, children must live in Florida and be four years old on or before Sept. 1 of the current school year.<\/p>\n

\"Starting<\/figure>\n

Benefits of a VPK Program<\/h2>\n

There are many reasons to consider enrolling your child in a VPK program. Some benefits of VPK include the following:<\/p>\n

Increased Early Development<\/h2>\n

Experts agree, and data shows that children who attend a high-quality prekindergarten program have better social and emotional skills, as well as improved academic achievement. According to the National Education Association, children receiving a high-quality education before they reach five years yield long-term benefits, including:
\n– Less likely to repeat a grade
\n– Less likely to be identified as having special needs
\n– More prepared academically for later grades
\n– More likely to graduate high school
\n– Earn more when they enter the workforce<\/p>\n

Free Tuition<\/h2>\n

The Florida Department of Education provides free tuition for all eligible 4-year-olds. You may also be able to find scholarships or financial assistance to help with other associated costs, such as transportation or before\/aftercare.<\/p>\n

Small Class Sizes<\/h2>\n

VPK programs typically have lower ratios of students to teachers, which means your child will receive more individualized attention and support. ChildCare.gov states,
\nThis responsive caregiving is extremely important to your child\u2019s social and emotional growth and physical fitness.
\nMoreover, smaller class sizes mean adults can react to situations more quickly to prevent injuries or if a child feels ill. Finally, being in a small class helps children feel less overwhelmed and more comfortable, stimulating their eagerness to learn.<\/p>\n

Hands-On Learning<\/h2>\n

VPK programs use a variety of hands-on activities and games to help children learn. This type of learning is engaging and fun, and it helps children retain information better. Children who engage in hands-on learning activities are more focused than sitting passively listening to a lecture, and it encourages teamwork and critical thinking.<\/p>\n

Easier Transition to Kindergarten<\/h2>\n

Attending a VPK program can help ease the transition into kindergarten, both academically and socially. Your child will be better prepared for the rigors of kindergarten and will have made friends ahead of time.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/figure>\n

VPK at Kids R\u2019 Kids Learning Academy<\/h2>\n

Kids R\u2019 Kids at Avalon Park is committed to setting your child up for success in kindergarten and beyond. Our program is designed to help your child grow academically and physically<\/a> while having fun. We provide your child with a stimulating learning environment, healthy nutrition, and safety in a state-of-the-art secure learning facility. The VPK program at Kids R\u2019 Kids encourages:<\/p>\n