A high-quality pre-K program treats children like whole people, not just students who come and go from the classroom each day. Learning and growth happen all the time, whether children are at school, at home, on the playground or elsewhere. That’s why many pre-K programs offer support for families and students both inside and outside of the classroom.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a MECK Pre-K teacher? We went into classrooms to interview a few of our teachers and got the inside scoop on what they love best about teaching pre-K classes at MECK Pre-K!

MECK Pre-K is one of three public pre-k programs available in Mecklenburg County. In order to ensure that all families in Mecklenburg County have the information they need to choose the best program for their children, we are providing a quick overview of the three programs, what they offer, and how they may be similar and different.

We know that early education is good for children and their development, but what does the latest research tell us about the specific benefits of pre-K?

Many of today’s young children experienced have more social isolation during their early years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. So, what are some simple things that we can do to help encourage heathy development among today’s young children?

There are many ways to observe a child’s growth during the pre-K years. So much is happening for them intellectually, socially and emotionally, it’s almost like seeing a new child emerge every day! As they mature, a pre-K student may develop a broader vocabulary, begin to understand basic math, become more observant about the world around them, make friends, learn problem-solving skills, and so much more.

MECK Pre-K was founded in 2018 with the goal of providing high quality free pre-K education open to all four-year-old children in Mecklenburg County. In the ensuing five years, the program expanded to include 105 classrooms at 47 childcare centers.

Are you curious to know what goes on in a MECK Pre-K classroom? MECK Pre-K uses The Creative Curriculum®, a hands-on, project-based approach to education that incorporates real life experiences into the learning process.

Kids need us to know we are their biggest fans. And just telling them isn’t enough to build the self-confidence they require to become the person they’re meant to be.
Understanding how to build your child’s self-esteem sets them up for long-term success.

The importance of pre-K (a school-year long program that takes place immediately before a child’s Kindergarten year) to childhood development cannot be overstated. Attending pre-K helps children gain confidence and self-esteem. It helps them get accustomed to school routines. It teaches them how to communicate with teachers and peers. It lights up pathways in the brain that will be absolutely essential to later learning.