Pre-K Counts: Growing Strong Minds Starts Here

Free* Pre-K Counts gives your child the start they deserve.

Every child deserves a strong beginning. Our FREE full-day Pre-K Counts program helps children ages 3–5 build confidence, develop essential skills, and get ready for kindergarten in a safe, supportive environment.

Funded by Pennsylvania Keystone STARS, this program gives families access to high-quality early learning at no cost for those who qualify.

Enrollment includes lunch and two nutritious snacks every school day so they’ll stay fueled for adventure.

*Free for eligible families.

Child in Pre-K Counts program at YMCA Early Learning Center learning through hands-on classroom activities
Child in Pre-K Counts program at YMCA Early Learning Center learning through hands-on classroom activities

Building a Strong Foundation for Kindergarten

Before kindergarten, children need a strong foundation to succeed. Pre-K Counts helps build that foundation every day.

  • Reading and math readiness through hands-on learning
  • Listening and following directions in a structured classroom
  • Social skills and teamwork with peers
  • Confidence building in a supportive environment

How Pre-K Counts Supports Your Child’s Growth

  • Experienced teachers who support each child’s development
  • A proven curriculum focused on academic and social growth
  • Kindergarten readiness to help ease the transition to school
  • Small class sizes for more individualized attention

Give your child a strong start that lasts beyond the classroom. Pre-K Counts helps children build the skills they need for kindergarten and beyond.

Enrollment is based on eligibility. Apply today. Space is limited.

Applying Is As Easy as 1, 2, 3

  1. Click to download and print/save the 2026-27 PA Pre-K Counts Enrollment Application. (Formulario de Inscripción de Pre-K Counts 2026-2027)

  2. Complete the application and all of the following items (required by law). Without this information, your application is considered incomplete and your child(ren) cannot be registered.
    • Pre-K Counts Enrollment Form for 2026-27
    • Copy of 2025 Income Tax Form
    • Birth Certificate
    • Most recent physical form
    • IEP (if you’re applicable for your child)

  3. Email the final, completed application and required materials (listed above) to Shelly Eppihimer, Vice President of Youth Development, at [email protected]. 

Have questions? Call 610-378-4775.  

Pre-K Application Days

Join us for Pre-K Counts Application Days at the Y,  meet staff, tour classrooms, get help with applications, and learn how free pre-K can set your child up for success.

May Application Days

Tues 5/12 | 3 – 5 PM

Wed 5/20 | 10 AM – 12 PM

Thur 5/28 | 3 – 5 PM

June Application Days

Fri 6/5 | 10 AM – 12 PM

Tues 6/9 | 3 – 5 PM

Wed 6/17 | 10 AM – 12 PM

Thur 6/25 | 3 – 5 PM

Mon 6/29 | 10 AM – 12 PM

July Application Days

Mon 7/6 | 10 AM – 12 PM

Tues 7/14 | 3 – 5 PM

Wed 7/22 | 10 AM – 12 PM

Thur 7/30 | 3 – 5 PM

August Application Days

Fri 8/7 | 10 AM – 12 PM

Tues 8/11 | 3 – 5 PM

Wed 8/19 | 10 AM – 12 PM

Thur 8/27 | 3 – 5 PM

Mon 8/31 | 10 AM – 12 PM