Programs & Services for Parents

Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK)

Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) is a free program aimed to prepare four-year-old children for kindergarten and build the foundation for their educational success. VPK is available to all four-year-olds born on or before September 1 who reside in Florida, regardless of family ...read more

School Readiness

School Readiness child care funding is available to eligible families to assist them in obtaining affordable, high quality child care. Children are eligible from birth through 12 years of age with additional funding for children with special needs until their 17th ...read more

Child Care Resource and Referral

For parents looking for child care in Manatee County, The Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County offers free, unbiased, personalized information on child care programs and providers in the area. Services include: A customized search for child care based on ...read more

Child Health and Development

The Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County offers a variety of programs to help with early detection of physical or learning challenges in a child's life. If any concerns are found, we promote understanding between parents and providers of the ...read more

Quality Initiatives

All children deserve to be in early care and education programs of high quality that assist each child in developing to her or his full potential.   School Readiness Programs Providing care for School Readiness funded children in Florida means following ...read more

Upcoming Events

Free Tax Preparation
When: 02/01/2012 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Where: Suncoast Community Capital

Items to Bring: Required:  Valid, official photo ID (for you and your spouse if filing jointly)  Social Security cards for ...read more


Take Stock in Children Annual Fun Run
When: 02/26/2012 7:30am - 12:00pm
Where: Main Street, Lakewood Ranch

Take Stock in Children of Manatee County’s 3rd Annual 10K / 5K / Fun Run Time: 10K Race Starts at 7:30 a....read more