California’s ambitious plan to extend eligibility for transitional kindergarten to all 4-year-olds by 2025 has raised questions about the effectiveness of these programs for some families. While investments in public preschool have provided much-needed child care solutions for some parents, others find that the programs do not align with their needs. Even when Pre-K programs are full-day, working parents struggle to find child care before and after the school day, leading them to opt for private day care centers or other alternatives.
Despite California’s expansive plans for universal preschool, enrollment in transitional kindergarten has been slower than expected. Governor Gavin Newsom had estimated 120,000 students would enroll, but only around 91,000 did last year. Some families are re-evaluating the value of traditional kindergarten post-pandemic, with many finding that programs without an academic focus better meet their needs. Additionally, the lack of wraparound child care services at some schools can drive parents to choose alternative child care options.
The transitional kindergarten program in California has been shown to have benefits, such as preparing students for the rigors of elementary school and improving math and literacy skills. However, the program’s effectiveness may vary from state to state. In Michigan, where transitional kindergarten is not offered statewide, it has been linked to increases in third-grade test scores. Access to free early childhood education programs like transitional kindergarten can be a major selling point for families, particularly those with limited financial resources.
For families like María Maldonado’s, transitional kindergarten has been a valuable resource. Maldonado’s daughter, Audrey, attends a program that includes afterschool care, allowing her to remain at school from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Audrey is thriving academically and enjoys her time at school, showcasing the positive impact of such programs on young learners. However, the experiences of families like Ethan’s reveal the challenges some parents face in navigating the complex landscape of early childhood education and child care options.
As California continues to expand transitional kindergarten eligibility, more families will have access to these programs. While some parents may prefer alternative child care solutions, the benefits of transitional kindergarten, such as academic preparation and free access, make it an attractive option for many families. Looking ahead, it will be important for policymakers to address the needs of working parents and ensure that early childhood education programs align with the diverse needs of families across the state.
