California has free and low-cost pre-k and preschool programs for 3 and 4 year olds
Find the right early learning option for your family
What programs are available for 3- and 4-year-olds?
Preschool programs
Programs that can be no-cost or low-cost for your family. They could be center care or home-based care.
There are preschool programs available for children who are 2-4 years old. Programs are no-cost or low-cost for families who qualify, including those who receive certain benefits or meet income rules.
Transitional Kindergarten (TK)
A free program in California’s public schools for children who turn 4 by September 1.
All children who turn four by September 1 are eligible.
What happens at these programs?
Young children learn through play, build confidence, and get ready for kindergarten in a joyful, supportive environment.
Play together
Children play with others to learn sharing, turn-taking, and being a good friend.
Explore and imagine
Kids ask questions, use their imagination, and discover new ideas through play.
Build confidence
Children practice independence and gain confidence in a supportive space.
Enhance school readiness
Learning feels fun while children build skills for the next big step.
Find Local Programs
Select your CA county to find early learning resources:
How can I learn more?
Contact your local California Child Care Resource & Referral Network to learn more about preschool options (or call 1 (800) 543-7793).
Visit Trustline when choosing in-home preschool programs.
Visit your school district’s early learning website for more information about TK.
Early Learning Promotional Materials
This Communications Toolkit provides ready-to-use resources to help community-based organizations, parent groups, counties, districts, and other trusted messengers with ready-to-use materials to raise awareness of California’s free and low-cost early learning options.
Each resource is designed to answer families’ most common questions, highlight local opportunities, and support outreach in trusted community spaces.
Resources are free to use, and available in numerous languages.