Preschool in Matthews, NC
MECK Pre-K Locations
Looking for a free and well-staffed Matthews NC pre-K program? MECK Pre-K is here to help. We currently have pre-K classrooms at two child development centers in Matthews to ensure that children in Mecklenburg County have access to high-quality pre-K education.
Our Matthews Locations
Here are the two child development centers in Matthews that offer free pre-K through MECK Pre-K:
Childcare Network #96
210 Pineville Matthews Road
Matthews, NC 28105
704-845-9019
Smart Kids Child Development Center #7
1208 Sam Newell Road
Matthews, NC 28105
980-339-5387
MECK Pre-K Information
What Is MECK Pre-K?
MECK Pre-K is high-quality, free pre-K education open to all four-year-old children in Mecklenburg County. Classrooms are located in licensed child development centers. Classes are taught by licensed teachers and highly qualified assistant teachers.
Please note, this program is reserved for kids turning 4 on or before August 31 of the school year being applied for.
Benefits of Pre-K
High-quality pre-K prepares children for the demands of life — not just in the short-term as they succeed in school, but also in the long-term as they grow up, become employed, and contribute to the strength of the community. Children experience growth in social and emotional skills, language and literacy abilities, mathematical and scientific thinking, and the joy of learning.
Another major benefit of pre-K is that it eases children into being separated from their parents for longer periods. Pre-K days are shorter than kindergarten days, so the transition will be less jarring. This encourages independence and confidence in kids who could otherwise struggle with separation anxiety.
How to Apply
If your child lives in Mecklenburg County and is the appropriate age, you can fill out an application form on their behalf. This form can be completed online at MeckPreK.org. To successfully apply, you’ll need a few things, including:
- Valid email address
- Proof of your child’s age and legal name (birth certificate, passport)
- Proof of your own identity (state-issued driver’s license, passport)
- Proof of current residency in Mecklenburg County (vehicle registration, utility bill)
- Child’s immunization records and recent physical (within one year)
To learn more about requirements and the application process in general, please visit our enrollment page.
Enroll Your Child in a Free Matthews NC Preschool
We encourage you to apply now if you’d like your child to join one of our pre-K classrooms in Matthews. If you have any questions about our program, application process, or Matthews locations, please contact us at your earliest convenience. Our staff would be happy to assist you.