Brevard Early Learning Coalition: Programs and Services for Children and Families
The Early Learning Coalition of Brevard (ELC Brevard) is dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, and quality early learning services to children and families in Brevard County, Florida. Administering multiple early learning programs, the Coalition contracts with numerous childcare providers, schools, and pre-schools to deliver high-quality services. These programs include School Readiness (subsidized childcare), Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK), Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R), Florida First Start, and Inclusion programs.
Core Programs and Services
School Readiness Program
The School Readiness program offers childcare assistance to eligible families, providing financial support for childcare services. This program aims to give parents access to high-quality early care and education opportunities while they work towards financial self-sufficiency. The program also provides parents with information on child development and encourages parental engagement, recognizing parents as their child’s first teachers. Each School Readiness program includes developmental screenings for children and referrals to health and educational specialists as needed. Florida’s School Readiness (SR) program is a statewide initiative that provides financial assistance to low- and moderate-income families for early education and childcare. The program supports parents who are working, attending school, or participating in job training by subsidizing childcare costs.
Eligibility and Access
To learn about the eligibility criteria for the School Readiness program and to access Child Care Resource and Referral services, families can contact the Family Services staff at 321-637-1800. School Readiness childcare funding is available to eligible families to assist them in obtaining affordable, high-quality childcare.
Benefits of Early Learning
Research indicates that early learning programs significantly increase children’s chances of achieving future educational success and becoming productive members of society. The School Readiness program in Brevard County is a critical resource for families seeking affordable, high-quality early education and childcare services. Designed to prepare children for school and support working parents, the School Readiness program is managed by the Early Learning Coalition of Brevard County and funded through Florida’s Office of Early Learning.
Application Process
The process for applying for School Readiness in Brevard County is straightforward. Begin your application by visiting the Florida Early Learning Family Portal. During the application process, you’ll be prompted to select a childcare provider. Electronically sign the application and submit it through the portal.
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Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Program
The Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program (VPK) is a free program for children who live in Florida and turn four years of age on or by September 1st of the program year. The mission of the prekindergarten program is to prepare students for Kindergarten and beyond.
VPK Eligibility Extension
A state law effective July 1, 2016, extends VPK eligibility for 4-year-olds with birthdays from February 2nd through September 1st in a calendar year. If a child's birthday falls between these dates, parents may postpone enrolling their child in VPK until the following year when the child is 5-years-old. This extension is intended to allow parents of younger 4-year-olds to postpone their child's VPK start date, enabling the child to begin kindergarten and first grade as a slightly older, more mature student.
Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R)
Childcare Resource and Referral is available to assist families seeking quality and affordable child care options and local community resources. Families interested in this free resource can contact the CCR&R Parent Line at 321-637-1800 ext.
Support for Child Care Providers
CCR&R also supports potential and current providers by offering information about starting a new child care business and enhancing existing programs. They also assist providers with questions about the VPK and School Readiness programs. For more information, providers can call 321-637-1800.
Additional Initiatives and Partnerships
Community Engagement and Support
The Early Learning Coalition of Brevard actively engages with the community through various initiatives and partnerships. These collaborations aim to enhance early learning opportunities and support the well-being of children.
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Nemours Children’s Health Partnership
The Coalition partners with organizations like Nemours Children’s Health to support the emotional well-being of children. During Cares Week, Nemours volunteers packed Calming Kits for VPK students and Classroom Calming Kits for classrooms in Brevard County’s most critical zip codes. These tools help young students manage their emotional needs while in the classroom.
Clearwave Fiber Partnership
The ELC Brevard has partnered with Clearwave Fiber to establish a Little Free Library at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center. Through Clearwave Fiber’s sponsorship of the Soar by Four programming, families gain greater access to books and opportunities to foster a lifelong love of reading in a space that honors veterans and the community.
L3Harris Technologies LIFT Volunteers
L3Harris Technologies LIFT volunteers contribute to spreading cheer during the holiday season. Their support helps inspire a love of reading and learning.
Special Events and Opportunities
The Coalition hosts and participates in various events to promote early learning and engage with the community.
Take Off into Reading!
The community is invited to special story time events like "Take Off into Reading!" featuring authors and professionals who share their inspiring journeys to encourage young learners to dream big and explore careers.
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Partnering with Local Businesses
The ELC connects children with real-world role models and seeks partnerships with local businesses and professionals who want to share their stories.
Quality Standards and Resources
Gold Seal Quality Care Program
The Gold Seal Quality Care (Gold Seal) program was established in 1996 to acknowledge child care facilities and family day care homes that have gone above the required minimum licensing standards to become accredited by recognized agencies whose standards reflect quality in the level of care and supervision provided to children.
Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential
The Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential provides child care and early learning instructional personnel with high-quality, evidence-based online course content to build their emergent literacy knowledge and skills to effectively support emergent literacy learning for children, birth through prekindergarten.
The Division of Early Learning (DEL)
The Division of Early Learning (DEL) is dedicated to providing accessible, affordable and quality early learning services for the state’s children and families. The Division of Early Learning will provide access to high-quality programs and services that build a solid foundation for Florida’s youngest learners to reach their highest potential.
Choosing a Childcare Provider
When selecting a childcare provider, families should consider factors such as the provider’s accreditation, curriculum, and the overall environment.
Jelly Bean Junction
Jelly Bean Junction in Melbourne, Florida, is one of Brevard County’s premier childcare providers that accepts School Readiness subsidies. With a focus on play-based learning and a curriculum designed to nurture creativity and independence, the center offers care for children from six weeks to six years old. By selecting Jelly Bean Junction, families can ensure their children benefit from enriching early childhood experiences while easing the financial burden of childcare.
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