About Universal PreKindergarten

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

Transitional Kindergarten (TK)

A program for 4-year-olds offered at most elementary schools

Is TK the same as UPK?

No, Transitional Kindergarten (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?

3-Year-Olds

Mother with children

ALL 3-YEAR-OLDS CAN GO TO:

Child Care Centers
Family Child Care Homes

4-Year-Olds

Smiling child

ALL 4-YEAR-OLDS CAN GO TO:

Child Care Centers
Family Child Care Homes

4-Year-Olds
Born by Sept. 1st
Student at desk

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 September 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: Appreciate everyone's uniqueness.
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.