Free Program
Voluntary Prekindergarten
Every eligible 4-year-old in Polk County can attend VPK for free — building early literacy and kindergarten readiness.
4,087 children enrolled
Guided path
Start
Use this space to find child care help, provider support, ELC contacts, or urgent after-hours resources.
For immediate child care resources after office hours, call 2-1-1Not sure where to go? Start here.
For immediate child care resources after office hours, call 2-1-1
Programs for Start
Financial Assistance
School Readiness
Helping working families access quality, affordable child care through subsidized enrollment and provider partnerships.
5,626 children servedFree Guidance
Child Care Resource & Referral
CCR&R specialists help families find and evaluate quality child care that fits their schedule, budget, and needs.
Free for all familiesI need help paying for care
Start with School Readiness for families.
Income and family-size eligibilityWorking or attending schoolApplication through Family Services Portal
My child is 4
Start with VPK for families.
Free Voluntary PrekindergartenProof of Florida residenceCertificate of Eligibility
I operate a program
Start with Provider Services.
Contracts and enrollmentsAttendance and reimbursementsVPK and School Readiness forms
Upcoming
Events for Start
Jun
25
VPK Information Session – Fall 2026
Jun 25, 2026 · 10:00 AM – 11:30 AMELC Polk Office – 115 S Missouri Ave, Lakeland
Learn about the free Voluntary Prekindergarten program for eligible 4-year-olds. Bring proof of Florida residency. No appointment needed.
Learn moreJul
9
School Readiness Application Workshop
Jul 9, 2026 · 2:00 PM – 4:00 PMELC Polk Office – 115 S Missouri Ave, Lakeland
Step-by-step help with the School Readiness application. Bring income documentation and proof of employment or school enrollment.
Learn moreJul
17
Early Learning Community Forum
Jul 17, 2026 · 6:00 PM – 7:30 PMPolk County Library, Lakeland
Public forum on early learning access and quality in Polk County. Families, advocates, and community members are encouraged to attend.
Learn moreAug
5
Polk County Family Resource Fair
Aug 5, 2026 · 9:00 AM – 1:00 PMRP Funding Center, Lakeland
Annual back-to-school resource fair with child care enrollment help, VPK sign-ups, School Readiness applications, and community services all in one place.
Learn moreNews & Updates
Latest for Start
ELC Polk is open Monday through Thursday 8am–5pm and Friday 8am–12pm.
Child Care Resource and Referral helps families find quality, affordable child care options and local resources.
Children will be prepared for school and life success.
ELC Polk leads community efforts in supporting the success of children.
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