Signing up your child for VPK at Home Away From Home is straightforward. First, visit the Office of Early Learning website, and access the family portal. There’s a brief application process, and you’ll be asked to provide documentation that helps prove your child is eligible for the free voluntary prekindergarten program.

Age and Residency Requirements for VPK

To be eligible for VPK, your child must be 4-years-old on or before September 1. If your child’s birthday falls between February 2 through September 1, they can be enrolled in VPK that year, or the following. If they turn five, they can enroll in VPK if they’re not in kindergarten.

To meet the age requirements, you will be asked to submit one of the following documents that show your child’s name and birth date:

• Original birth certificate or a certified copy.
• Original certificate of baptism or other religious record or certified copy.
• Insurance policy on the child’s life that’s been in effect for at least two years.
• Immunization records.
• Parents can also submit a notarized affidavit of the child’s age along with a letter signed by a public health official or physician acknowledging that the age in the affidavit is correct.

Our VPK programs are only offered to children who are residents of the state of Florida. You will be asked to submit proof of residence in order to enroll in the VPK program. You can submit any of the following documents to show proof:

• Utility, cable, or home phone bill that’s dated within a 12-month period of the VPK application.
• A pay stub that’s dated within a 12-month period of the VPK application.
• Government-issued documents or identification, like a driver’s license.
• Florida Migrant Education Program Certificate of Eligibility form
• A notarized affidavit of the residential address, along with a letter from the landlord, property owner, or lessee.

What Families are Responsible For

While Florida’s VPK is a free program, parents and families are still responsible for some things.

You will need to transport your child to and from their VPK program. Additionally, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with any of the programs policies regarding attendance, discipline, and late fees.