Overview of UPK Program

Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) in California is a program for all 4-year-old kids to go to preschool before they start kindergarten. UPK helps children:
- learn
- play
- grow in a safe and friendly place
This prepares them for school and life.
The different types of programs in UPK options are: Transitional Kindergarten (TK), California State Preschool Program (CSPP), Head Start, and Family Childcare.
Families can pick the program that works best for their child and their schedule. California’s UPK system supports parents choosing what is right for their unique family and child.
What is Parental Choice?
What is Parental Choice?
What is Parental Choice?
Parental choice means that families can pick the early learning place that is best for their child. Examples can include:
-
program at a public school
-
community preschool
-
home care provider
Parents can choose what works best for their child's growth, language, culture, and daily schedule.
The goal is to give families different options instead of just one solution that fits everyone.
Pre-K Options:
Pre-K Options:
Pre-K Options:
You know your child best! There are different options that suit your child's needs!
You’re probably here because you have a three- or four-year-old and are wondering what to do about their care and learning during this time before Kindergarten. The table below illustrates how California has a diverse set of Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) options that are now more affordable and accessible for families. Choose whichever fits your needs!
| Type of Program | Setting | What is Included? |
| Center Based Care | Children learn in classrooms with trained teachers. | Programs support activities and games that are designed to help children prepare for school. They get to play with other children, allowing for the developement of social skills. |
| Family Child Care (FCC) | Children learn in a home setting. | Programs have small groups of children, flexible scheduled and usually operate year-round. |
| Transitional Kindergarten (TK) | Children learn in a school setting. | Programs are a stepping stone between preschool and kindergarten. Option is available for kids born between September 2, 2020 and September 1, 2021. |
| Other Options | Children learn in a setting preferred by parents. | Programs support children's socialization and growth, not often available in traditional centers or licensed programs. |