Early Education in Pennsylvania

Research shows that children who participate in quality, early learning programs tend to be more academically successful, socially competent and more verbal than children who do not participate in early learning programs.

For some children, that means being active in periodic programs at the library, community center or house of worship. For others, it’s full-time child care or preschool. The Pennsylvania departments of Education and Public Welfare are particularly involved in ensuring the availability and quality of early education programs across the state.

Additional Resources

Learning is Everywhere!
Access activities, tips, and books families can use to help young children learn at home, at the doctor's office, grocery store...basically everywhere! 
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Family Support programs
Learn how programs like Nurse-Family Partnership and Parent Child Home Program provide instruction and activities to support a child's early learning in the home for participating low-income families
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Child Care
Search for certified/registered child care programs in you area, and find out if you are eligible for child care assistance.
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Keystone Stars
Reach for the STARS! Find out how participating child care programs are improving the quality of the services they provide by earning a STAR 1 – STAR 4 rating, and search for STARS programs near you.
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Early Intervention
Read about special services for developmentally delayed children from birth to five years old.
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Head Start
Find out about this preschool program for low-income three, four, and five year olds that includes health care and hot meals. Learn more

Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts
Learn how and where Pennsylvania is bringing high quality half-day and full-day pre-kindergarten opportunities to more at-risk three and four year olds. Learn more