Early Childhood
Laying the Foundation for Learning
VDOE helps prepare all children for kindergarten by supporting birth to five programming, including the Virginia Preschool Initiative and Early Childhood Special Education. Quality early learning experiences are an essential element to preparing children to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. Watch the videos below to learn more.
Early Childhood Education: Key Ingredients
Early Childhood Inclusion in Augusta County
Virginia's Focus on School Readiness
The years before a child enters kindergarten directly impact a child’s ability to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. School Readiness means preparing all children for kindergarten by supporting birth-to-age-five programming, including the Virginia Preschool Initiative and Early Childhood Special Education. Virginia's focus includes key classroom practices such as the use of high-quality curriculum and assessment, teacher-child interactions and individualized professional development. It also includes strengthening family engagement.
The VDOE is preparing for the transition of child care functions from the Department of Social Services (VDSS). As of July 1, 2021, the VDOE will be in charge of child care licensing and the child care subsidy program. This is all part of Virginia's broader effort to unify and strengthen the birth-five landscape in Virginia. Visit Building a Unified Early Childhood System for information and resources related to this transition.

For Families

For parents and caregivers of children birth to age five
Begin here to navigate the range of information and resources for children from birth to age five on this website. Resources for Families includes developmental standards and guidelines, preschool programs, special education information and links to a number of early childhood supports including health and social services.
Preschool

Virginia preschool programs for four-year-olds
Early childhood programs in Virginia public schools provide a foundation for learning and academic success. In addition to information on Preschool Programs and services, this section includes professional development resources for teachers and grant management tools for administrators.
Children with Disabilities

Early childhood special education services for children birth to age five
For children with disabilities, Virginia's public school system offers early childhood services as part of their special education programs. These Early Childhood Special Education services provide children with disabilities the services needed to attain skills that are comparable to their typically developing peers.
Instructional Resources
Refer to Curriculum & Instruction and Professional Development for early childhood professional standards, instruction practices and professional development resources.