Dear Preschool Supporter:

While it seems as though we've just settled into our summer routines, it's time to make sure that children who turn four by Nov. 1 of this year are enrolled in a high-quality LAUP preschool program this coming school year.

If you are a resident of Los Angeles County and have or know of such a child, then he or she is eligible to attend one of more than 330 LAUP preschools at little or no cost. By enrolling your child in a high-quality preschool program, you're giving them a better chance to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Studies show that preschool education is critical to a child's future success in school and life.

The impact of preschool on a child, a family and society as a whole is immense. Research shows that children who attend preschool are more likely to graduate from high school and seek higher education. They typically show an advantage in pre-reading, early writing and math skills, and are less likely to be involved in crime, held back or placed in special education, or need public assistance. Furthermore, they are more likely to be employed and earn a higher income.

You may be wondering what your child will experience in an LAUP preschool program. For most children, it will be the first school environment they encounter. They will explore the world around them in a learning environment through seeing, listening, touching and smelling. They will be exposed to educational materials such as books, blocks, puzzles and simple science activities that may involve planting, cooking and nutrition.

They will learn about colors, math, languages, music, art and much more. They will also develop social and problem solving skills through interactive play with peers. The LAUP curriculum is designed to further develop your child's social, cognitive, academic and emotional health.

But we can't do it alone. Parental involvement in a child's education is a crucial component to their well-being. That is why LAUP offers opportunities for parental engagement that focus on communication, community resources and advocacy.

Studies show that regardless of a family's economic, racial or cultural background, as long as a parent is involved in their child's education, the results are impressive. They include better school attendance, reduced drop-out rates and overall better student achievement.

LAUP is committed to educating your children, and in doing so, improving the quality-of-life in our communities. That is why if you haven't already done so, I encourage you to enroll your child or refer other children to a high-quality LAUP preschool to better prepare them for school and life. For more information, call 866-675-5400 or visit www.laup.net.

Celia C. Ayala, Ph.D.
CEO, Los Angeles Universal Preschool