Pre-K & VPK Program | Greater Orlando Metro
Your child's pre-kindergarten year is such a special season of growth. Curiosity expands, friendships begin to feel meaningful, and confidence starts to shine in new ways. At StarChild Academy, our Pre-K & VPK program gently guides children through this exciting stage with encouragement, structure, and joyful discovery. Through our Voluntary Prekindergarten education program, children build the skills and independence they need to step into kindergarten feeling confident, capable, and excited to learn. For families exploring VPK, pre-kindergarten, or pre-k options in Florida, choosing the right school is an important decision. Parents are looking for more than supervision, they want a place where their child feels safe, valued, and inspired each day. Our voluntary prekindergarten VPK program brings together nurturing relationships, engaging learning experiences, and strong academic preparation. In this warm and supportive environment, children grow in confidence, curiosity, and readiness for the next chapter of their educational journey.
Pre-K & VPK Program Enrollment
Ages Served
4 to 5 years old for the voluntary prekindergarten program enrollment.
Schedule Options
School year program options, including full-time pre-k and part-time VPK programs at select locations
Hours
Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM for full-day programs
Is Potty Training Required?
Yes. Children enrolled in our pre-kindergarten and VPK programs must be fully toilet-independent.
Curriculum Focus
Our voluntary prekindergarten and pre-k programs combine a nationally recognized curriculum with engaging activities designed to strengthen early literacy, language skills, and pre-math concepts. Students learn through McGraw-Hill's Open Court reading curriculum and Saxon Math while exploring science, music, art, and social interaction. These learning experiences support early childhood education and prepare children to confidently enter school ready for kindergarten success.
Daily Routine
Each pre-k classroom follows a balanced daily schedule designed to nurture learning and confidence. Children participate in circle time, storytelling, phonics practice, pre-math activities, creative projects, and outdoor play. These structured routines support social skills, independence, and curiosity while helping children strengthen their academic abilities.
Classroom Experience
Our VPK specialized instructional services are delivered in warm, engaging educational settings that encourage young learners to explore and grow. Small class sizes allow our teachers to provide individualized attention, helping children build confidence while developing the skills needed for kindergarten readiness.
About Our Pre-K & VPK Program
The transition from preschool into kindergarten is a special milestone in your child's life. During this stage, children begin asking deeper questions, communicating more clearly, and forming friendships that shape their sense of belonging. Our pre-kindergarten program is designed to guide children through this exciting year with care and intention. The voluntary prekindergarten VPK program in Florida was created to offer children free prekindergarten education before starting kindergarten. The program began as part of Florida's commitment to early education and school readiness, helping children across the state gain access to high-quality programs that support their growth. As a VPK provider, our classes combine the benefits of the state's voluntary prekindergarten education program with our proven private school curriculum and nurturing teaching philosophy. Eligible children benefit from individualized guidance, structured lessons, and meaningful social interaction that help them develop independence and confidence.
From 4 Years to 5 Years: Development Support For Every Stage
During the pre-kindergarten year, children grow quickly in both academic and social areas. Our Pre-K and VPK program supports development across several important learning areas. Research shows that children who participate in high-quality pre-kindergarten programs demonstrate stronger literacy and math development when they begin kindergarten. These early experiences provide a valuable jump-start for lifelong learning.
- Building Language and Literacy – Our voluntary pre-kindergarten program emphasizes reading readiness and vocabulary development. Through storytelling, conversation, and phonics lessons, children strengthen communication and language skills that prepare them for kindergarten learning.
- Developing Pre-Math Skills – Students explore early math concepts through counting, patterns, sorting, and problem solving. These activities strengthen pre-math understanding and build confidence with numbers.
- Strengthening Social Skills – Classroom collaboration helps children learn to share, communicate, and work with others. These experiences build empathy, teamwork, and confidence that help students thrive in school.
- Encouraging Curiosity and Creativity – Through art, music, and exploration, children discover new interests and ideas. Hands-on projects allow young learners to ask questions, experiment, and build critical thinking skills.
- Preparing for Kindergarten Success – As VPK specialized instructional service providers, we support children as they develop independence, focus, and responsibility. By the end of the school year, students are prepared to enter kindergarten feeling confident and ready for new challenges.
Pre-K & VPK Program Enrollment and Registration
Families interested in enrolling in our pre-k Florida program can begin by completing their VPK application through the Early Learning Coalition, which works alongside the Florida Department of Education to provide access to free pre-kindergarten for eligible families. Once approved, families can choose StarChild Academy as their VPK provider and schedule a visit to explore our classrooms and meet our educators. Because VPK registration begins months before the school year program starts, families are encouraged to begin the process early.
Our admissions team is happy to help parents navigate the VPK program options, connect with the child care resource and referral network, and answer questions about enrollment, instructional hours, and scheduling.
Why Families Trust StarChild Academy in Orlando
Families throughout Central Florida choose StarChild Academy because we combine the advantages of the voluntary pre-kindergarten VPK program with the personalized support of a private school environment.
- Families trust our experienced leadership team, including educators who have been guiding StarChild Academy children and families for nearly two decades.
- Our caring teachers meet or exceed all state training and credential requirements and maintain CPR and First Aid certification to ensure children are always supported safely.
- Spacious, light-filled classrooms with tempered glass walls create welcoming environments where children feel inspired to learn and explore.
- Separate outdoor playgrounds for each age group provide safe spaces where children can move, play, and build confidence every day.
- Our campus security features a single controlled entry point, biometric access, camera monitoring, and a staffed front entrance to help keep children protected.
- StarChild Academy students consistently demonstrate strong academic success, with 91% meeting or exceeding state benchmarks and outperforming the national average by more than 16%.
- At StarChild Academy, we believe that strong partnerships with families help children succeed. Our teachers communicate regularly with parents and celebrate each milestone together.
A Private School Serving the Orlando Area
Our Pre-K & VPK program serves families throughout Central Florida, including:
Apopka / WekivaStarChild Academy proudly serves families throughout the Orlando area with programs designed to support children at every stage of their education. Our campuses provide safe, welcoming environments where children develop friendships, curiosity, and a love of learning. Schedule your tour today and see the StarChild Academy difference for yourself.
Parent Reviews
Amanda L.
April 3, 2025
An Exceptional Preschool That Stands Apart After extensive research and multiple school changes for my first son, I can confidently say that this preschool is truly exceptional. What sets it apart is its transparency—something I found lacking in many other programs. Instead of simply dropping children off at a door and retrieving them hours later with no insight into their day, parents here have the opportunity to witness the environment, the learning process, and the overall atmosphere in which their children are growing. This openness fosters a deep sense of trust and confidence in the education and care being provided. Beyond transparency, the staff is what truly elevates this school. They are not only highly capable and efficient but also exceptionally kind, trustworthy, and genuinely invested in the well-being of every child. Their commitment to both the students and their families is evident in every interaction, and their dedication goes far beyond duty—it is a reflection of their passion for early childhood education. This is a place where children are not only nurtured but also meaningfully engaged in learning. The difference is unmistakable, and I advocate for this school every chance I get—at the park, the grocery store, anywhere I meet parents searching for quality education. If you are looking for a preschool that values transparency, DIVERSITY, EXCELLENCE and HEARTFELT DEDICATION, this is the one! It’s the ONLY one. Amanda Seidman
Kenneth J.
March 18, 2025
The staff is just awesome. Very professional to everyone. They do a great job with the kids. I feel very safe leaving my daughter there, knowing she is cared for. Thank you Ken
Maria M.
March 11, 2025
Amazing teachers and staff!
Kiran K.
March 4, 2025
The teachers!!!!!!!!!!
Sarah H.
March 4, 2025
We love Starchild. Ms. Deb and the entire staff go the extra mile for all of the kids. I have 2 kids enrolled and would highly recommend.
Joy W.
February 18, 2025
I am incredibly grateful for this preschool and the wonderful environment they have created. From day one, the warm, nurturing, and compassionate atmosphere immediately put both my little one and me at ease. The staff are absolutely amazing—patient, caring, and truly dedicated to every child's growth. Since joining, my lil guy has flourished in every way. It’s heartwarming to see him light up with joy and anticipation every morning as he heads off to school. His newfound confidence, social skills, and excitement for learning have made this experience a delightful journey for our family. I wholeheartedly appreciate all the educators for their unwavering commitment to creating such a loving and supportive space. I highly recommend this preschool to any parent looking for a place where their child can truly thrive.
Christina L.
January 28, 2025
My kids are learning at a rapid pace and making progress in their education. I love the learning based program.
Albert C.
January 22, 2025
I recently submitted a review and I do have to apologize as it looks like I was off base on the rationale. Big shout out to Ms. Deborah, being great like she always is and providing clarification as to the cameras. Our confidence in Deborah and her team is marrow deep, and I do appreciate their rationale. We have always been the greatest fans of StarChild and the staff! Our kids have loved being here and they have grown a TON. Our youngest is going through the process of potty training and we all know how fun that can be. The teachers are doing a great job helping us to get our youngest through this important phase.
Alexandra B.
December 13, 2024
The school staff is always exceptional! We are strongly considering keeping our oldest there for elementary school as well because of the experience we have had so far. Our kids and family are treated nicely and it’s been pleasant year since we have been a part of the StarChild family.
Jinica D.
December 3, 2024
Top tier education
Other Early Learning Programs Available at Our School
Our infant program provides nurturing care that supports early development, trust, and meaningful relationships between babies and caregivers.
Our toddler classrooms encourage exploration, communication, and independence through hands-on learning and play.
Our preschool program helps children build confidence and academic foundations while strengthening social skills through guided activities.
Our elementary program supports continued academic growth through small classes, engaging lessons, and individualized support.
Flexible scheduling allows families to access high-quality education and care that fits their daily routines.
Other Early Learning Programs Available at Our School
Our infant program provides nurturing care that supports early development, trust, and meaningful relationships between babies and caregivers.
Our toddler classrooms encourage exploration, communication, and independence through hands-on learning and play.
Our preschool program helps children build confidence and academic foundations while strengthening social skills through guided activities.
Our elementary program supports continued academic growth through small classes, engaging lessons, and individualized support.
Flexible scheduling allows families to access high-quality education and care that fits their daily routines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Early Learning Pre-kindergarten Program & VPK Program
Yes, our school proudly participates in the voluntary pre-kindergarten education program and is an approved VPK provider in Florida. Through this program, the Florida Department of Education allows schools like ours to offer free pre-kindergarten to eligible four-year-old children during the school year. Our classrooms combine nurturing care with strong early education so that children can attend VPK in a supportive environment focused on school readiness and long-term educational success.
Schedule A Tour To See Our PreKindergarten Program in Action
Your child's pre-kindergarten year is an important step toward their future. At StarChild Academy, our VPK program helps children build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and develop friendships that make learning exciting. We invite you to visit our school, meet our educators, and see firsthand how our pre-kindergarten classrooms help children grow, learn, and thrive. Schedule your tour today and discover why families across Orlando trust StarChild Academy to prepare their children for kindergarten and beyond.