Minneapolis Public Schools Early Childhood Education Department staff members understand that parents are their child’s first and most important teachers. Parents play a key role in their child’s healthy growth and development. Children who receive a strong beginning in their preschool years come to school prepared and eager to continue learning.

Minneapolis Public Schools will support your family in your child’s learning. We have made school readiness a priority. MPS offers the following early childhood and family programs to help families prepare their child for kindergarten:

• Early Childhood Screening
  Minneapolis Public Schools offers early childhood screening services to children ages three to five. It is recommended that children be screened at age three, but call at any time if you are concerned about your child’s growth and development – screening can be done before age three. It is required that all children be screened before they begin kindergarten. Screening staff can help you find the early childhood services you need to best prepare your child for kindergarten. Call 612.348.TOTS (612.348.8687) to schedule an early childhood screening appointment.
• Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)
  ECFE offers parent and child education programs for families with children from birth to kindergarten enrollment. Classes help parents provide the best possible environment for their children’s learning and growth. Each class meets once a week for an average of two hours per class; classes are available mornings, afternoons and evenings, Monday through Saturday. Call 612.668.2127 for more information.
• Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)
  ECSE serves students from birth to kindergarten identified as having a Developmental Delay (DD) or other disability. Screening for ECSE evaluation is available by calling 612.348.TOTS (8687). Eligibility is determined through evaluation by Minneapolis Public Schools. ECSE services are offered in the community, homes, childcare sites and schools throughout the school district. Call 612.668.5100 for more information.
• Fours Explore
  The Minneapolis Kids school age care program offers a special readiness program for four-year-olds at Kenny and Lyndale schools. The program, called Fours Explore, is an all-day, year-before-kindergarten experience that assists children in getting ready for school. This is a fee-based program designed to support student learning through discovery activities including math, reading, science and art. Hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., year round. Contact the Minneapolis Kids office at 612.668.3890 or e-mail at: mpls.kids@mpls.k12.mn.us.
• High Five
  The High Five program is a half-day preschool program for children who turn four on or by September 1 and will start kindergarten the following fall. To apply, complete a school request card; call 612.668.1840 for enrollment materials. Priority is given to children who qualify for free/reduced lunch or receive special educaiton services.
• Early Kindergarten Admission
  While MPS does not recommend early admission, some parents may feel their child should start kindergarten earlier than the recommended age. If your child turns five years old between September 2 and October 31, your child is eligible for consideration for early admission into kindergarten based on established procedures.
• Teenage Pregnancy and Parenting Program (TAPPP )
  TAPPP provides high quality early childhood services to pregnant and parenting students and their young children. TAPPP provides on-site childcare, transportation, parenting education and support services for student parents seeking to continue their education. Call 612.668.1881 for more information.