We continue to look for ways to save you money on childcare since we know how expensive it can be. As we told you recently, childcare for two kids is outpacing the cost of housing in Florida.
Some good news for parents who may not be aware— Florida offers free Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten when your child turns four, and the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County said it’s a perfect time to sign up.
Dr. Fred Hicks, the CEO of the ELC of Hillsborough, said about 70% of kids who go through VPK end up ready to enter kindergarten the following year. The chances of being ready are much lower when a child doesn’t attend VPK.
The past year for five-year-old Vincent Colon has been really transformative.
“VPK has been amazing for him,” said Sander Colon, Vincent’s dad. “It’s a 180-degree change for him, to be honest.”
In person, Vincent smiled wide, which turned into a smirk when his dad made that comment. No amount of change can take away the embarrassment a kid feels when their parent gushes about them.