Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) is now in Los Angeles County
There are more free and low-cost PreKindergarten (Pre-K) spots in Los Angeles County! UPK is an initiative to expand early care and education choices for 3-and 4-year old children. All families can participate, no matter their income or immigration status.
Where can I find a free or low-cost Pre-K spot?
Child Care
Centers
Licensed programs in a
school like setting
Family Child Care
Homes
Licensed programs in a home setting
Traditional Kindergarten (TK)
A program for 4-year-olds offered at most elementary schools
Is TK the same as UPK?
No, TransitionalKindergarten (TK) is one of the many program options available within UPK.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PRE-K SETTINGS TIPS ON CHOOSING A PRE-K PROGRAM
Is my child old enough for Pre-K?
All 3 year olds can
go to:
- Child Care Centers
- Family Child Care Home
All 4 year olds can
go to:
- Child Care Centers
- Family Child Care Homes
All 4 year olds born by Sept. 1st can go to:
- Transitional Kindergarten
- Child Care Centers
- Family Child Care Homes
Do I have to pay for Pre-K?
It depends on the program. Some spots are free while other spots may require a fee. You can get help paying those fees through programs like Alternative Payment, Head Start, and California State Preschool. This payment assistance is based on your income and household size.
All 4 year olds born by Sept. 1st can go to:
- Alternative Payment Programs (child care vouchers) are accepted by most Child Care Centers and Family Child Care Homes.
- Head Start and California State Preschool Programs are offered at many Child Care Centers.
- Elementary schools offer Transitional Kindergarten for free.
SEE IF YOU QUALIFY FOR PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
How can Pre-K help my child?
Providing your child with quality experiences with a caring professional in a safe space is priceless. Pre-K programs give children a chance to:
- Make Friends: Play, share and cooperate.
- Gain Independence: Try new things and build confidence.
- Meet New People: Improve physical and social skills.
- Move and Play: Improve physical and social skills.
- Prepare for School: Learn numbers, letters, shapes, and ease into kindergarten.
- Stay Curious: Ask questions and explore.
How do I find a Pre-K provider in my neighborhood?
Visit MyChildCarePlan.org Visit MyChildCarePlan.org to search a map of child care
centers and family child care homes near you.
Get Personalized Referrals Get free, personalized Pre-K referrals online.
Find Your School District Contact your school district to see which schools offer Transitional Kindergarten.
