Parents share their experiences finding and joining early learning programs across California. Watch, download, and share!
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How Parents Choose Their UPK Program
Choosing an early learning program is an important decision for families. In this video, parents share what mattered most to them when selecting a Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) program, from location and schedule to teaching approach and classroom environment. Hear how families explored their options and found programs that fit their child’s needs and their daily routines.
UPK offers a variety of early learning choices, including Transitional Kindergarten (TK), state preschool, Head Start, and community-based programs, so families can find the right fit.
How Parents Choose Their UPK Program
Choosing an early learning program is an important decision for families. In this video, parents share what mattered most to them when selecting a Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) program, from location and schedule to teaching approach and classroom environment. Hear how families explored their options and found programs that fit their child’s needs and their daily routines.
UPK offers a variety of early learning choices, including Transitional Kindergarten (TK), state preschool, Head Start, and community-based programs, so families can find the right fit.
What Children Gain from UPK Programs
Parents share the growth they see in their children through UPK programs, from early reading and language development to social skills, confidence, and independence. These early experiences help children build a strong foundation for kindergarten and beyond.
UPK supports the whole child by nurturing curiosity, encouraging play-based learning, and helping children feel a sense of belonging in the classroom.
Children’s Favorite UPK Activities
From storytime to hands-on learning, UPK classrooms are full of joyful experiences. In this video, parents share the activities their children look forward to most each day. Whether it is art, music, outdoor play, or learning with friends, these moments help children build skills while enjoying their early learning journey.
Universal PreKindergarten programs are designed to spark curiosity, support creativity, and make learning engaging and meaningful for every child.
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How UPK Benefits the Whole Family
Universal PreKindergarten supports not just children, but entire families.
Hear from parents about how UPK has made a difference in their lives, from providing reliable childcare to helping them balance work and family responsibilities. Families also share how their children’s growth and happiness positively impact their home life.
UPK helps create stronger connections between schools, families, and communities, ensuring children and caregivers feel supported every step of the way.
Choosing the Right Preschool: Real Advice from California Parents | UPK Parent Interview
Choosing a preschool is a big decision, and hearing from other parents can make all the difference. In this video, California families share what to look for when exploring early learning programs. From understanding daily schedules and curriculum to asking about meals, language options, and care hours, these real voices offer practical guidance to help you find the right fit for your child. If you are wondering whether preschool is the right next step, one parent puts it simply: go for it. Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) brings together programs across California to give families more choices and better access to high-quality early learning for 3- and 4-year-olds.
From First Words to First Friendships: How Preschool Helps Children Thrive | UPK Family Voices
What changes can preschool make in a child’s life? In this video, California families share the growth they see every day. From learning to count and recognize shapes to building vocabulary and forming friendships, these moments add up in powerful ways. Parents describe how their children are not only learning numbers and sounds, but also gaining confidence, communication skills, and social connections that support them at home and beyond. Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) helps children build the skills they need for what comes next, while giving families access to programs that support both learning and care.
It Looks Like Play; Builds Lifelong Skills. CA Early Childhood Learning Programs | UPK Family Voices
What does learning look like in early childhood? Sometimes, it looks like play. In this video, California families share what their children love most about their day, from playing with friends to story time, building, and creative activities. Behind these joyful moments, children are learning how to take turns, collaborate, communicate, and build relationships. Play is not just fun. It is how young children develop the social and emotional skills that support success in school and life. Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) connects families to programs where learning and play go hand in hand.
“This Changed Everything for Our Family” – The Real Impact of CA PreK | UPK Family Voices
This is more than preschool. In this video, California families share what access to early learning has truly meant for them. It is support. It is guidance. It is a trusted community. It is knowing your child is safe, cared for, and thriving. It is being able to go to work, build a business, and provide for your family, while your child is learning and growing in a place that feels like home. For many families, it is everything. Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) connects families to programs that support both children and the adults who care for them.
Watch and share these videos on your channels. Explore additional promotional materials available to download and disseminate: cauniversalprek.org/promo-materials.