Early Education for Everyone: Supporting Families With Childcare Assistance in Brevard, FL
Hello friends!
Here at The Melbourne Preschool, we believe that every child deserves access to high-quality early education, no matter their family's income. Learning, play, connection, and support in the earliest years of life should not be a luxury—it should be a right.
That’s why we’re proud of our ongoing partnership with the Early Learning Coalition (ELC) of Brevard. It’s been nearly 10 years that we’ve been working with ELC here in Melbourne, FL, to provide high-quality childcare and VPK, helping children laugh, grow and thrive!
Through ELC’s School Readiness and VPK programs, families in our community can access subsidized childcare that meets high standards for quality, safety, and developmental support. These programs are more than financial assistance—they’re a lifeline for working families and a foundation for children’s long-term success.
🌱 Why Subsidized Childcare Matters
Research consistently shows that high-quality early childhood education leads to better academic performance, social skills, and long-term outcomes—especially for children from low- to moderate-income households. When families have access to affordable care, they’re better able to work, pursue education, and create a stable home environment.
According to the National Institute for Early Education Research, “public investment in early education—especially for at-risk children—has the potential to yield significant returns, both for individuals and society” (Barnett & Friedman-Krauss, 2016).
Another study published in the Journal of Economic Perspectives notes that access to early childhood subsidies increases maternal employment and reduces child poverty, creating positive ripple effects that benefit families and communities.
Our Approach: High-Quality and Inclusive
At The Melbourne Preschool, our partnership with ELC of Brevard helps us provide:
School Readiness support for eligible families
Free VPK for 4-year-olds
Connections to early intervention services if needed
The chance for all children to access a nurturing, educational environment
We strongly believe that quality childcare shouldn’t be a privilege. Our team works hard to make sure all families feel welcome and supported—whether through private enrollment or through programs like School Readiness, provided through ELC Brevard.
ELC Brevard doesn’t just manage preschool and childcare subsidies for families- they also have wonderful literacy initiatives across our county! ELC has installed many Little Free Library boxes across Brevard in the “take a book, leave a book” style. We’re a huge fan!
ELC also has an upcoming initiative: interactive walking trails with learning signage near Titusville—to combine movement and educational experiences for families. They’re always finding educational ways to give back to our community here in Melbourne, Florida.
Working Together for Families
We appreciate our local ELC team—not just for their support, but for the shared belief that early education can, and should, be accessible. By partnering with ELC, we’re able to reach more children and better serve our community as a whole.
Ready to Apply for financial assistance for daycare and VPK in Brevard, FL? Click below to follow ELC's steps to start your child's early education adventure:
School Readiness Tuition Assistance: https://elcbrevard.org/parents/school-readiness/
Free VPK in Brevard, FL (4 - 5 years old): https://elcbrevard.org/providers/voluntary-pre-k/
ELC Brevard: https://elcbrevard.org/
Toodleloo!
Academic Sources:
Barnett, W. S., & Friedman-Krauss, A. H. (2016). State(s) of Head Start. National Institute for Early Education Research.
Blau, D., & Currie, J. (2006). Pre-school, day care, and after-school care: Who's minding the kids? Journal of Economic Perspectives, 20(2), 39–60.📚 Academic Sources (APA Style):
Barnett, W. S., & Friedman-Krauss, A. H. (2016). State(s) of Head Start. National Institute for Early Education Resear