To VPK or not to VPK ?

This may sound counter-intuitive but, in this economy, it seems getting your child enrolled in a 'free' VPK program is more difficult than ever before. The cost of gas is barely affordable for most and not affordable at all for others. That poses the first problem of how to get your child to this free program. The Florida program is approximately 3 hours per day. That requires transportation twice in a short period of time. This can be very difficult to coordinate with other children's school schedules or the lack of having a personal vehicle.

What about the wrap-around program you say? Many moms stay at home because their family cannot afford the additional financial stress of daycare even with a second income. This makes this 'free' program more costly. These facts are all very real to some families. So, what motivation do parents have to ensure their children take advantage of this program? The statistics are out and there are significant increases in Kindergarten readiness for a child who completes the entire VPK process. There are even notable differences in children with just some participation in the program. Here is the link to the facts gathered over the last few years of the success of the VPK program.

VPK Results

What are some things that can ease the stress of getting your child to VPK?

1. Get your child registered as early as possible with the Early Learning Coalition in your area. 
2. Do not leave registration without your yellow form and the list of VPK providers by zip code.
3. Choose a few VPK providers in your immediate area then call first to see if the hours they offer will fit into your schedule. 
4. Once you find a couple that meet your family's needs, visit the facility. Be sure to understand the absence policy as this can cause your child to be removed from the program. * You may switch VPK providers once within the year.
5. If the VPK provider is not within bus or walking distance, set up a carpool. Most children at this age can safely use a high-back booster therefore making it easier to add car seats to your car. 
6. Maybe even ask a member of the staff to help you coordinate carpooling. 
7. These are just a few ideas but be sure to communicate any problems you may have to the staff of the facility so that they may understand your situation and help you resolve issues. 

Even though not perfect, the VPK program implementation is a great resource to provide readiness for your child's school career. If you are still having a hard time, contact your local Parent Resource Center and they may be able to help you with even more options even though your child is not technically in public school yet. They have a lot of resources and information available to them. Check out their site here:

www.knowyourchoices.org

Remember A Quantum Leap is available for all of your tutoring needs.
www.TutoringByCity.com