PHLpreK Program
Making preschool accessible to all.
PHLpreK Program Benefits
PHLpreK programs offer engaging, appropriate activities in settings that facilitate healthy growth and development, and prepare children for success in school.
The time from birth until kindergarten can set the course for your child’s whole life. Nearly 85% of your child’s brain is formed by the time they turn three and those first few years are the most important to their brain development and long-term success.
Children who attend quality child care and pre-K programs are more likely to graduate from high school, have steady jobs, and even own a home one day.
Children in PHLpreK benefit from:
- A small class size (20 students per one teacher and one aide) so that your child can have plenty of one-on-one time with the teachers
- Classroom teachers with the education and expertise to teach young children
- A curriculum that helps each child grow, academically and socially
- Selected teaching and learning activities that are best for individual learning abilities
- Regular updates about their progress throughout the school year
Apply for PHLpreK
PHLpreK funds free, quality, PreK at over 130 centers throughout Philadelphia. The Y is a participating partner of this program within the city!
The program is available to 3 and 4-year-olds who reside in the City of Philadelphia. You are likely eligible to enroll your child for PHLpreK year if:
- Your child has turned 3 or 4 by September 1
- You are a resident of Philadelphia
There are no income or employment requirements.
Families interested in applying for the PHLpreK program can complete the application below.
PHLpreK Program Locations
Find a location that works for your family and expand the section to get started on taking a tour.
Christian Street YMCA Early Learning Center
1724 Christian Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146
Columbia North YMCA Early Learning Center
1400 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19121
Northeast Family YMCA Early Learning Center
11088 Knights Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154
Roxborough YMCA Early Learning Center
7219 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19128
Which children are eligible for PHLpreK?
PHLpreK is a free program for families who reside in the City of Philadelphia.
Children ages 3-4 are eligible to enroll, child must not turn 5 prior to September 1. Children who are of Kindergarten age must attend Kindergarten.
Daily attendance is required.
What are the hours of operation for PHLpreK?
Hours of operation are 9-3, wrap around care may be available depending on location.
What's the staff to child ratio?
We follow a 1 adult to 10 children ratio for preschool.
How do teachers communicate with parents about child progress?
Daily notes on the curriculum, lessons, and activities are provided through Tadpoles. Families are provided with development progress reports three times per year.
How do you maintain a sanitary environment?
Handwashing occurs upon entering the classroom, before handling food and feeding, after handling body fluids, before and after messy play.
Surfaces in the learning center are washed and sanitized frequently. Rest mats/coats are sanitized weekly and bedding is sent home at the end of each week to be laundered. Carpets and toys are cleaned regularly.
What health and safety precautions are taken?
To learn more about the health and safety precautions we follow at Y Early Learning Centers, please review our Family Manual. We also follow the standards outlined by Praesidium for child protection.
What do families need to provide as part of their child's care?
Families shall provide a seasonably appropriate change of clothing as messy play, food spills, and toileting accidents are still common at this age.
Families provide a standard crib sheet and blanket, change of seasonally appropriate clothing, sippy cup or water bottle, and possibly lunch depending on location.
All items brought from home shall be labeled with the child’s full name.
How often are bathroom trips?
Bathroom trips are provided at least every 2 hours.
When is nap time?
Nap time is for 1 hour after lunch on a cot or rest mat.
How often will my child play outside?
Preschoolers spend time outdoors daily so appropriate outerwear is necessary year round.
What type of shoes should my child wear?
Closed toe and closed heel shoes, such as sneakers, are best for all age groups.
Can my child bring a screen play device?
Screen time is not permitted in preschool rooms.