When choosing quality early childhood education (ECE), there are many options available. PHLpreK offers quality options for both center and family based ECE providers. Read on to learn more about these options and what may be the right choice for you and your pre-K student.

Center Based ECE

In an ECE center, seven or more children who are not related to the operator attend ECE classes. The center must have a certificate of compliance (“license”) from the Department of Human Services (DHS) in order to legally operate. ECE centers often have multiple classrooms where classes are grouped by age. Classrooms must keep a ratio of no more than 10 students per 1 lead teacher. All center-based PHLpreK providers follow a state-recognized curriculum.

This might be a good fit for you if….

You are looking to place your child in a standard classroom setting.

Center based ECE programs often teach children in a setting that is very similar to the classroom set up they will experience in kindergarten and elementary school.

Your child thrives in groups.

Because of their larger size and staff, ECE centers often have 10-20 students per classroom with 1-3 teachers in the room at a time.

Family Based ECE

Family based ECE is administered in a home in which 4 to 6 children who are not related to the caregiver attend ECE classes. A family provider home must have a certificate of compliance (“license”) from DHS in order to legally operate. Family providers will allow a range of ages to work together with one to two teachers working with students. There can be no more than 6 children enrolled in a family ECE program at any time. All family-based PHLpreK providers follow a state-recognized curriculum.

This might be a good fit for you if….

You want siblings to stay together.

Many family providers are more flexible with the ages of the children that they can accommodate. Children are able to spend time and play with children of all ages.

You work nontraditional hours.

Family providers often offer more flexibility in their hours. Some providers even offer overnight care.