Universal Pre-Kindergarten Program

Nassau County & Suffolk County - Long Island

Alternatives For Children extends our years of early childhood experience and expertise to school districts through our Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) Program. Universal Pre-Kindergarten is a New York State early childhood initiative focused on the educational development of four year olds in preparation for their subsequent kindergarten experience.

What is Universal Pre-Kindergarten?

Universal Pre-Kindergarten is a New York State early childhood initiative focused on the educational development of 4 year olds. Through comprehensive age appropriate educational experiences, the program promotes the development of children’s language, early literacy skills, cognitive, physical, social and educational skills. Our comprehensive Universal Pre-Kindergarten classes, taught by dually certified special education/early childhood education teachers and certified teacher assistants, are designed so that children will meet or exceed the criteria established for their age, be ready to learn and be inquisitive, and be successful as they transition to the kindergarten environment. Graduates leave Alternatives For Children ready to learn and ready for Kindergarten.

What is the underlying concept for Universal Pre-Kindergarten?

The underlying principle of Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) is the importance of play in the growth and development of young children. As children explore their surroundings, using different tools and materials, and role play, they learn. Play stimulates a child’s creativity; it becomes a means of expression for them, both verbal and non-verbal. In play, children both draw on their past experiences and are encouraged to experience and learn new things.

What is the curriculum for Universal Pre-Kindergarten?

At Alternatives For Children, we use the Creative Curriculum, which is aligned with the New York State Pre-Kindergarten Learning Standards to guide young children in learning and acquiring necessary content and skills. The Creative Curriculum is an early childhood curriculum designed to foster children’s social/emotional, physical, cognitive and language development, as well as enhance learning in literacy, math, social studies, the arts and technology.

Where can I learn more about Universal Pre-Kindergarten?

Begin by contacting your local school district to determine if they offer Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK). If the answer is yes, they can guide you through the registration process and help you enroll your child in district Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) or direct you to preschools within your community with which they contract for Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK).

Does Alternatives For Children collaborate with local school districts in offering Universal Pre-Kindergarten?

YES! Not surprisingly, given its mission and commitment to the nurturing of young children, Alternatives For Children works collaboratively with several school districts.

Alternatives For Children East Setauket is a contracted Universal Pre-Kindergarten collaborator for the Middle Country Central School District. Contact Liza Long for information. 631-331-6400 x784 elizabeth.longo@alternativesforchildren.org

Alternatives For Children Aquebogue is a contracted Universal Pre-Kindergarten collaborator for the Riverhead School District. Contact Lisa Caselles for information. 631-722-2170 x502 lisa.casseles@alternativesforchildren.org

Alternatives For Children Dix Hills is a contracted Universal Pre-Kindergarten collaborator for the Half Hollow Hills School District. Contact Vivienne Viera for information. 631-271-0777 x413 vivienne.viera@alternativesforchildren.org