The Division of Early Learning (DEL) in Florida is committed to ensuring that every child has access to high-quality, affordable early learning services. Understanding the critical importance of early childhood education, DEL partners with 30 early learning coalitions and the Redlands Christian Migrant Association to deliver essential programs for young learners and their families across the state. These initiatives are designed to support children’s development and prepare them for future academic success, while also assisting families in achieving financial stability.
DEL offers three core programs to support Early Learners in Florida:
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School Readiness Program (SR): Recognizing the financial challenges many families face, the SR program provides financial aid to low-income families for early education and childcare. This support enables parents to pursue financial self-sufficiency, knowing their young children are in a nurturing and educational environment that fosters school readiness.
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Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK): VPK is a groundbreaking free educational program in Florida, specifically designed to prepare four-year-old children for kindergarten and beyond. This program focuses on building a strong foundation in literacy, math, and social skills, ensuring early learners are well-equipped for their academic journey.
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Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R): Navigating childcare options can be overwhelming for parents. CCR&R serves as a vital network, offering guidance and resources to families in identifying and selecting quality childcare solutions that best fit their unique needs and circumstances.
For more information about Early Learning programs and how they can benefit your early learner, please call 866-FL-READY (357-3239).
Our Vision and Mission for Early Learners
Vision: To establish Florida as a leader in early care and education, creating a world-class system where every child can reach their full potential and achieve lifelong learning and success.
Mission: The Division of Early Learning’s mission is to provide accessible, high-quality programs and services that build a strong foundation for Florida’s youngest learners. By empowering early childhood educators and offering families choices in education, along with comprehensive support and resources, DEL is dedicated to ensuring Florida’s future leaders are ready to learn, graduate, and thrive.
Key Programs Supporting Early Learners
The Division of Early Learning provides targeted programs for different aspects of early learner development and support systems. These include:
School Readiness (SR)
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Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK)
Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R)
Resources for Parents of Early Learners
Resources for Providers of Early Learning Services
Florida Early Learning Developmental Standards & Professional Competencies
Gold Seal Quality Care Program: Recognizing Excellence in Early Learning
The Gold Seal Quality Care (Gold Seal) program, established in 1996 and now managed by the Department of Education, recognizes childcare facilities and family day care homes that demonstrate exceptional quality. These providers go above and beyond minimum licensing standards, achieving accreditation from recognized agencies that represent the highest levels of care and supervision for children. Choosing a Gold Seal provider assures parents of a commitment to excellence in their early learner’s care and education.
Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential: Enhancing Educator Skills for Early Learners
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The Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential program is designed to equip childcare and early learning professionals with advanced, evidence-based online training. This program enhances their knowledge and skills in emergent literacy, enabling them to effectively support literacy development in children from birth through prekindergarten. Eligible personnel working in Florida’s early learning programs can also receive a stipend upon completing this valuable micro-credential. For more information, visit Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential.
