How Do I Know Which Public Pre-K Option Is Best for Me?
The preschool years for children are a vital time for their emotional, cognitive, and social development. It is where they make decisions, socialize, interact with others, and develop their speech, motor, and sensory skills. Attending a high-quality education program at this level can set children up for academic success in the future. This is why it is important to make an informed decision on which public pre-K to send your child to.
Before your child goes to pre-K, you will want to make sure that they know the following skills so they can have the best experience possible.
- Recognize their written name.
- Know how to cut with scissors (safe ones).
- Manage basic social skills.
- Be able to focus.
- Have self-confidence.
- Be independent.
Differences Between Private Pre-K and Public Pre-K
One of the main differences between private pre-K and public pre-K is cost. Public pre-K is funded by a government entity and provided at little to no cost to families. Public pre-K is often just as high quality as private pre-K, but space is often limited to a finite number of spots for children. There also can be differences in the enrollment process. While both may require documentation, public pre-K will often require documents to verify residency, income or other requirements.
Public preschools may adhere to a set curriculum, along with licensure, education, and professional development requirements for staff. A staff-to-child ratio and developmental, nutrition, and assessment requirements may also be present.
Pre-K in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina
Children must be four years old on or before August 31 of the program year to attend pre-K in Charlotte, North Carolina. North Carolina doesn’t mandate pre-K, so it is up to the parents if their child goes to pre-K or not.
Where your child attends school at this age can affect their happiness, inspiration, and overall success in school. Fortunately, there are many options available in North Carolina. Seven types of schools are available in North Carolina, such as:
- Public schools
- Public charter schools
- Public magnet schools
- Private schools
- Home schools
- Online academies
- Learning pods
Public Schools in North Carolina
Most children attend traditional public schools in North Carolina, which are open to all, free, and funded by taxpayers.
If you are looking for a public pre-K to enroll your child in, a free program is available in Mecklenburg County, MECK Pre-K. This is provided through high-quality four- and five-star childcare centers in Mecklenburg County. MECK Pre-K enrollment is easy through their website.
Preschool Is an Option for Everyone With Public Pre-K in North Carolina
According to a Reading Rockets article, state-funded public pre-K programs serve just 22 percent of four-year-olds and three percent of three-year-olds across the US. Twelve states in the US do not offer state-funded pre-K at all. Fortunately, if you live in North Carolina, public pre-K is a resource available to further your child’s development. If you live in Mecklenburg County, you have access to MECK Pre-K, a publicly funded high quality free program. If you live in Mecklenburg County and your child meets the age requirements, you can apply!