Skip to main content

For Parents → Prekindergarten to High School → Prekindergarten

Prekindergarten Education

Parent Guide Video: Early childhood programs watch button

Overview

Although specialized programs are available for eligible children from birth to age 5, MCPS does not provide prekindergarten education for all children. Admission to the following programs is subject to income restrictions, special needs, and available space.

Prekindergarten and Head Start 

Prekindergarten and Head Start programs emphasize literacy and mathematics and include science, social studies, art, music, technology, and physical education. Health, dental, nutrition, and family support services are provided. Registration begins in March and continues throughout the summer. Space in these programs is limited, and family income must be below a certain level to qualify. Children must be three or four years old by September 1.

Additional Information 

Infants and Toddlers

The Montgomery County Infants and Toddlers Program provides early intervention services and therapies for children, birth to three years old, who have or at risk of having developmental delays.

Additional Information

Preschool Education Program (PEP)

The Preschool Education Program (PEP) offers preschool special education classes for children three to five years old in selected elementary schools. Most children who participate have moderate learning delays in more than one area of development. Many of the children receive related services such as speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, and/or physical therapy. Parent education also is part of the program.

Additional Information 

  • 301-460-2120

Child Find

Child Find conducts developmental screening and, if appropriate, refers children three to five years old to an interagency assessment team or the local school. During the screening, the Child Find staff will ask you questions and engage your child in activities to see how he or she learns, speaks, behaves, and moves in order to assess if your child is learning basic skills when he or she should. Typical areas of parent concern include medical conditions; difficulty hearing, speaking, or seeing; or learning delays.

Additional Information 

Judy Centers

Judy Centers housed at Rolling Terrace and Summit Hall elementary schools serve children from birth to five years old and their families. These centers help ensure that children are ready for school by providing educational opportunities, family support, and health-related services.

Additional Information 

  • Judy Center at Rolling Terrace Elementary School: 301-431-7696
  • Judy Center at Summit Hall Elementary School: 301-548-8287
  • Judy Centers