Children begin learning from the time they are born. Whether exploring their world through touch, sound, and/ or sight, infants are learning. Ninety percent of a young child’s brain is developed in their first five years. What they learn in those years helps develop academic, social and cognitive skills – the basis of learning.
This is where early learning comes in. Early learning refers to skills and concepts, as mentioned above, that children develop before reaching kindergarten. Studies show that supporting children’s early learning can lead to higher academic scores, a better chance of staying in school, seeking higher education, and more. While family are often the first teachers in a child’s life, it’s important that early learning also includes support from the professional educators found in childcare and other learning programs such as preschool and transitional kindergarten.
Finding a program to fit your family’s needs can seem daunting with so many variables to consider. With the Santa Clara County Childcare Resource & Referral Program (R&R Program), you can find a program that meets the needs of your child and family. From location to ratio, the R&R Program is here to help you. Program staff help families navigate the many options available for childcare in multiple languages. The program fulfilled more than 3,000 requests for childcare referrals and other information last year.
Cost is a factor for families when considering childcare and early learning program options. The R&R Program can connect families to referrals to financial assistance programs, such as the Alternative Payment Program, Subsidized Early Learning Programs, California State Preschool Programs, Head Start and Early Head Start, and other community-based programs. Information is available on the R&R Program website, by calling (669) 212-5437 or by sending an email to childcarescc@sccoe.org.
If your child is four years of age, it may be time to consider transitional kindergarten, the first year of a two-year kindergarten program to prepare young students for academic success. Transitional kindergarten is offered through the public school system, meaning your local school district. This program is free to all students regardless of income. Children turning five between September 2, 2024 and June 2, 2025 can enroll now to start in fall. Please check with your local district for enrollment information or visit the R&R Program website for preliminary information.
If you are a current provider or are considering a career in early learning, the R&R Program provides support to childcare professionals. There are more than 2,000 licensed early childhood facilities in Santa Clara County. Consider joining the more than 800 childcare providers already signed up to amplify their services through the R&R Program. Guidance and support for becoming a licensed childcare provider are also available.
Taking steps from the very beginning can ensure that children are healthy, safe, and prepared to succeed in school and life – from the very beginning. Help them take their first steps to success through early learning.
