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Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) is now in Los Angeles County

There are more free and low-cost PreKindergarten (Pre-K) spots in Los Angeles County! UPK is an initiative to expand early care and education choices for 3- and 4-year-old children. All families can participate, no matter their income or immigration status.

Where can I find a free or low-cost Pre-K spot?

  • CHILD CARE CENTERS
    Licensed programs in a school-like setting
  • FAMILY CHILD CARE HOMES
    Licensed programs in a home setting
  • TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN (TK)
    A program for 4-year-olds offered at most elementary schools

Is TK the same as UPK?

No, Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is one of the many program options available within UPK.

Learn More About 
Pre-K Settings
Tips on Choosing a 
Pre-K Program

Is my child old enough for Pre-K?

3-Year-Olds

ALL 3-YEAR-OLDS CAN GO TO:

  • Child Care Centers
  • Family Child Care Homes

4-Year-Olds

ALL 4-YEAR-OLDS CAN GO TO:

  • Child Care Centers
  • Family Child Care Homes

4-Year-Olds

Born by Sept. 1st

CAN GO TO:

  • Transitional Kindergarten
  • Child Care Centers
  • Family Child Care Homes

Do I have to pay for Pre-K?

It depends on the program. Some spots are free while other spots may require a fee. You can get help paying those fees through programs like Alternative Payment, Head Start, and California State Preschool. This payment assistance is based on your income and household size.

  • Alternative Payment Programs (child care vouchers) are accepted by most Child Care Centers and Family Child Care Homes.
  • Head Start and California State Preschool Programs are offered at many Child Care Centers.
  • Elementary schools offer Transitional Kindergarten for free.
See if you qualify for payment assistance

How can Pre-K help my child?

Providing your child with quality experiences with a caring professional in a safe space is priceless. Pre-K programs give children a chance to:

  • Make Friends: Play, share, and cooperate.
  • Gain Independence: Try new things and build confidence.
  • Meet New People: Appreciate everyone’s uniqueness.
  • Move and Play: Improve physical and social skills.
  • Prepare for School: Learn numbers, letters, shapes, and ease into kindergarten.
  • Stay Curious: Ask questions and explore.

How do I find a Pre-K provider in my neighborhood?

Visit MyChildCarePlan.org

to search a map of child care centers and family child care homes near you.

Connect with Your Local R&R

to get free, personalized Pre-K referrals.

Find Your School District

Contact your school district to see which schools offer Transitional Kindergarten.

Or call us at (323) 274-1380 and we’ll walk you through your options.