For families in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County, navigating the landscape of early childhood education can be both exciting and overwhelming. Fortunately, the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County, serving Fort Lauderdale, stands as a dedicated resource, ensuring that young learners have access to high-quality early care and education. As part of Florida’s Division of Early Learning (DEL) network, the coalition plays a pivotal role in connecting families with programs and support systems designed to build a strong foundation for children’s future success.
The Division of Early Learning is committed to making early learning services accessible, affordable, and of high quality throughout Florida. Working in conjunction with 30 early learning coalitions across the state, including the Broward County coalition that serves Fort Lauderdale, DEL administers crucial programs that support both families and early learning providers. These core programs are vital for the Fort Lauderdale community, offering pathways to school readiness and comprehensive child care support.
Key Programs Offered Through the Early Learning Coalition in Fort Lauderdale
The Early Learning Coalition of Broward County implements three primary programs within the Fort Lauderdale area, mirroring the statewide initiatives of the Division of Early Learning:
School Readiness Program (SR) in Fort Lauderdale
Understanding the financial challenges many families face, the School Readiness Program (SR) offers financial assistance to eligible low-income families in Fort Lauderdale. This support enables parents to access quality early education and care for their children while pursuing financial self-sufficiency. By providing this crucial aid, the Early Learning Coalition ensures that children from all backgrounds in Fort Lauderdale can benefit from early learning experiences that prepare them for future academic success. This program recognizes that early education is not just childcare; it’s an investment in a child’s long-term educational journey.
Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Program in Fort Lauderdale
The Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program is a cornerstone of early education in Florida, and the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County makes it readily available to families in Fort Lauderdale. VPK is a free educational program designed to prepare 4-year-old children for kindergarten and beyond. By participating in VPK through the Fort Lauderdale coalition, children gain essential skills in literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional development, setting them on a path to thrive in their academic careers. This program highlights the commitment to accessible and quality early learning for every child in Fort Lauderdale.
Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) for Fort Lauderdale Families
Navigating child care options can be complex. The Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) network, supported by the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County, acts as a guiding hand for Fort Lauderdale families. This service helps parents identify and select quality child care options that best meet their unique needs and circumstances. Whether families are seeking child care centers, family day care homes, or information on various early learning programs in Fort Lauderdale, CCR&R provides invaluable support and resources to make informed decisions.
Alt text: Gold Seal Quality Care Program emblem, recognizing high standards in Florida childcare facilities.
Vision and Mission Aligned with Fort Lauderdale’s Children
The vision of Florida’s Division of Early Learning, embraced and enacted by the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County in Fort Lauderdale, is to create a world-class early care and education system. This system aims to equip every child with the tools they need to reach their fullest potential for lifelong learning and success.
The mission is clear: to provide access to high-quality programs and services that build a solid foundation for Florida’s youngest learners in the Fort Lauderdale area. The coalition empowers early childhood educators and families alike by offering choices in education options, resources, and support. This collaborative approach ensures that Fort Lauderdale’s future leaders are not just ready to learn but also ready to graduate and succeed in all their endeavors.
Resources for Parents and Providers in Fort Lauderdale
The Early Learning Coalition of Broward County, serving Fort Lauderdale, is a central hub for both parents and early learning providers. Parents can find guidance on enrolling in School Readiness and VPK programs, accessing CCR&R services, and understanding Florida’s Early Learning Developmental Standards. Providers, in turn, can connect with resources for professional development, quality improvement initiatives like the Gold Seal Quality Care program, and information on emergent literacy micro-credentials to enhance their skills.
Alt text: Book icon representing Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential for early learning professionals in School Readiness and VPK programs.
For additional early learning information and to connect with specific resources in Fort Lauderdale, families and providers are encouraged to contact the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County directly or call the statewide information line at 866-FL-READY (357-3239). By leveraging the support and programs offered through the Early Learning Coalition, Fort Lauderdale can continue to foster a nurturing and enriching environment for its youngest residents, ensuring a brighter future for the entire community.
