Have you ever seen a 5-year-old who is able to follow directions and work independently? Who is self-directed but can also work well with others? That child most likely learned those skills in Pre-K.

So why is Pre-Kindergarten so important? Here’s what you need to know about the importance of Pre-K and what separates high quality Pre-K programs from the rest.

1. The most formative development happens by the age of five. The early years are the learning years. These are the years where a child learns foundational skills such as how to be attentive and how to follow directions.
2. Pre-K prepares children for future success in school. Studies show that children who participate in high-quality Pre-K programs develop better pre-reading and pre-math skills, score higher in school-readiness tests and have better social skills and fewer behavioral problems than their peers who did not attend a Pre-K program.
3. Pre-K promotes a love of learning. Pre-K instills a love of life-long learning by creating opportunities for self-discovery and exploration.

The ABCs of Choosing A Pre-K Program

• (A) Any Pre-K Is Better Than None… National studies show that children who attended a Pre-K program score higher on reading and math tests than children receiving parental care or who attend a child care center. These results are consistent across racial and temporal lines—children of all races reap both short- and long-term benefits to their education, even up through eighth grade.
• (B) …But “Quality” Pre-K Is Best. However, just how long the benefits of Pre-K last depends on the quality of the program. Studies have shown that the quality of the program is the single most important factor in determining the length of impact Pre-Kindergarten has on a child’s education. When looking for a “quality” Pre-K program, parents should look for small class sizes, student-directed learning and plenty of opportunities for open-ended play.
• (C) Come Visit St. Cecelia School. At St. Cecelia Interparochial Catholic School, we offer quality Pre-K options for 3 and 4 year olds as well as being an International Baccalaureate World School. We recognize the importance of small class size by ensuring a low student-teacher ratio. Our curriculum is specifically designed to incorporate self-directed as well as structured learning opportunities for your child.

Florida’s Free Pre-K Program Offers Options for Busy Families

Our Pre-K3 class offers full and half day options for three year olds. We utilize thematic explorations to expand your child’s physical, social/emotional, and cognitive growth; encourage curiosity; and provide experiences of self and guided discovery in the learning process.

St. Cecelia is also proud to be a leading provider of Florida’s free, voluntary Pre-Kindergarten education program (VPK) for four year olds. Our Pre-K4 classes offer a full-day program for four year olds as well as extended day care (until 6 pm) and before care (6:30 am) for working parents. We integrate the state’s VPK curriculum, the Diocesan standards, and the Florida Core state standards to ensure your child develops a life-long love of learning and is prepared for a future of academic success.

For more information regarding our Pre-Kindergarten programs, please visit the curriculum page of our website.