Solano's Great Start - Teaching & Learning Guidance

Teaching & Learning Guidance

UPK Programs in Solano County are Guided by California’s Early Learning Foundations:

1. Preschool / Transitional Kindergarten Learning Foundations

2. Preschool Curriculum Frameworks

These resources support:

Social-emotional development
Language and literacy
Early math and science learning
Physical development
Learning through play

There is no single required curriculum. Providers choose approaches that meet children's needs in their classrooms while aligning with state foundations.

Inclusion & Equity in Solano County

UPK emphasizes inclusive and equitable early learning:

Supporting children with disabilities
Supporting dual language learners
Respecting the cultural and linguistic diversity of Solano families
Offering flexible schedules and learning options
Workforce & Professional Development

Solano County providers can access:

Early childhood education coursework and credential pathways
Professional development and coaching opportunities
Technical assistance from the County Office of Education
Local workforce and career pathway programs
Leadership and quality improvement supports

Resources vary by program type; check with your school district, LPC, or Resource & Referral agency.

Funding & Program Opportunities

Local funding opportunities may include:

CSPP contracts or expansion grants
Head Start partnership programs
Quality improvement initiatives
Workforce stipends or professional development grants

Family Engagement & Transitions

Providers support families by:

Sharing information about early learning options in Solano County
Helping families navigate UPK and TK enrollment
Partnering with families during transitions to kindergarten
Coordinating with school districts and community partners

Strong family engagement is a critical part of Solano’s UPK system.

Why Solano Providers Matter

Early learning providers in Solano County are the backbone of UPK.

Providers:

Expand access to early learning for children across the county
Offer trusted, community-based care
Support family choice and flexible options
Strengthen kindergarten readiness for all children
Help build and stabilize the early childhood workforce

Frequently Asked Questions

Kindergarten Readiness

I hear people discussing kindergarten readiness or school readiness. What does this mean?

Kindergarten readiness, or school readiness, refers to a child's preparedness to participate and succeed in a kindergarten classroom. For parents, understanding these readiness indicators helps ensure their child transitions smoothly into elementary school. Kindergarten readiness is not just about academic preparedness, but includes the following areas:

Physical Health & Wellbeing

Emotional Maturity

Social Competence

Language & Cognitive Skills

Communication Skills & General Knowledge

Paying for Childcare and Pre-K

I need help with childcare and Pre-K costs. Where can I get help?

The best resource in Solano County for determining whether there are ways to get help paying for child care and Pre-K is the Child Care Resource and Referral Agency (R&R). The R&R in Solano County is Solano Family & Children’s Services https://solanofamily.org/

My family is struggling to get by. Where can we go for help?

There are services available to help families struggling financially or with other issues. Call 211 or visit 211bayarea.org to learn more.

Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K)

What is Pre-K?

“Pre-K” is a catch-all term for early care and learning centers where children ages 0-5 begin their learning journeys. They range from public to private, from formal to informal, and use different teaching approaches.

Pre-K programs may use a combination of play-based and structured activities to encourage curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning. These experiences help children build confidence, independence, and the foundational skills needed for a smooth transition to kindergarten.

Why is Pre-K important?

The earliest years of life are when the brain is most open to learning and growth. That’s why high-quality early care and education matter so much—they help lay the foundation for your child’s future success in school and in life. When children are in nurturing, engaging, and inclusive environments—with skilled teachers and caregivers who build meaningful relationships—they’re better prepared for kindergarten and beyond.

Transitional Kindergarten (TK)

What is Transitional Kindergarten?

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is a free Pre-Kindergarten program in which children learn together through play and develop social skills. All four-year-old children are eligible for TK the year before entering Kindergarten. TK is free of charge through California’s public school system. For more information about TK, visit California UPK.

Who can attend TK?

Starting in the 2025-26 school year, all children who turn four by September 1, 2025, are eligible for TK.

Is TK required?

TK is not required. Families may keep their child in their current child care or Pre-K program.

Is it true that if I do not enroll my child in TK at our school district, they will not have a place in Kindergarten or in Before/After School Care at the school when they are in Kindergarten?

It’s important to call your school district to find out what the conditions around TK enrollment are for your child, both for the year of TK enrollment and for the future. Some schools experience over-enrollment in certain years. Ensuring your child has a place in the school you are zoned for might be a factor you consider when enrolling in TK. It is also true that spaces in Before and After School Care might be limited at a particular school site, and securing a spot in TK may ensure you are more likely to retain that spot in future grade levels. However, every school district and every school is different. Asking the right questions of the school district enrollment office staff will help you make an informed decision.

California State Preschool Program (CSPP)

What is the California State Preschool Program (CSPP)?

CSPP is a state-funded, high-quality preschool program that helps children learn together through play and develop their social skills. CSPP is available at no cost or at a low cost to eligible families of three- and four-year-old children.* CSPP is a program that is available in a variety of different settings, depending on your area.

Who can attend a CSPP?

Three- and four-year-old children (and two-year-olds in some programs) may qualify if:

Any member of their family receives government assistance (like CalWORKs, Medi-Cal, CalFresh, WIC, or Head Start)

Their family is income eligible (at or below 100% of the State Median Income)

Their family is experiencing homelessness

The child has an identified disability with an individual family service plan (IFSP) or individual education program (IEP)

The child receives child protective services or is at risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation

Head Start

What is Head Start?

Head Start is a program for children ages 0-5, primarily funded by the federal government. Head Start services are available at no cost to eligible families, and many also serve expectant families. Programs deliver child development services in center-based, home-based, or family child care settings.

How can I enroll my child in Head Start?

The local Head Start program for Solano County is Child Start, Inc. Visit their website for more information https://www.childstartinc.org/

Solano Early Learning