Child Care Programs

Designed to support growth, learning, and joyful play every day.

Kids By The Hour

Register Now for Fall VPK!

VPK is open to children who will be 4 years old on or before September 1, 2026. Visit http://www.elcofduval.org/vpk.asp for more information.

Space is limited, so register today to secure your child’s spot!

Fall VPK Schedule:

  • Monday – Friday
  • Morning Session: 8:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
  • Afternoon Session: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

VPK Classes Start: August 11, 2026
For questions, please call (904) 821-0552.

Caring Programs for Children Ages 8 weeks to 12 years

We offer playful, reliable, and affordable child care for children ages 8 weeks to 12 years. Our flexible weekly and hourly programs—no contracts required—give parents peace of mind. Whether you need a few hours on a busy afternoon or regular care during nights and weekends, Kids By The Hour provides a safe, engaging, and joyful environment. Our classrooms are filled with age-appropriate toys, creative activities, and experienced staff who nurture every child’s growth. Extended hours and school-age care options make it easy to balance family schedules without compromise.

Infant Explorers Class (Ages 8 weeks to 12 months)

Curious toddlers thrive in our Infant Explorers Class. Early communication, gentle routines, sensory play, and music-based activities encourage curiosity and confidence. Our experienced staff guide each child with care and warmth, nurturing social, cognitive, and emotional growth.

  • Baby blocks: Hands-on sensory learning
  • Music notes: Rhythms and songs for language development
  • Sensory toys: Exploration through touch and play
  • Flexible drop-in care with structured classroom routine
1’s Explorers Class (Ages 12–24 months) - Copy

1’s Explorers Class (Ages 12–24 months)

Curious toddlers thrive in our 1’s Explorers Class. Early communication, gentle routines, sensory play, and music-based activities encourage curiosity and confidence. Our experienced staff guide each child with care and warmth, nurturing social, cognitive, and emotional growth.

  • Baby blocks: Hands-on sensory learning
  • Music notes: Rhythms and songs for language development
  • Sensory toys: Exploration through touch and play
  • Flexible drop-in care with structured classroom routine
1’s Explorers Class (Ages 12–24 months) 2 - Copy
1’s Explorers Class (Ages 12–24 months) 4 - Copy - Copy

Tiny Trailblazers 2/3 Class

Active and imaginative, our Tiny Trailblazers develop social skills, expand vocabulary, and enjoy creative movement activities. Play-based learning fosters collaboration, independence, and confidence while preparing children for future academic success.

  • Footprints: Active movement and outdoor exploration
  • Speech bubbles: Vocabulary and communication development
  • Paint palette: Creative art and imaginative play
  • Group icons: Cooperative learning and social growth

Three’s & Four’s Classroom – Early Pre-K Foundations

Our Three’s and Four’s classroom focuses on building independence, curiosity, and early academic skills through hands-on learning and play. Children are introduced to early literacy, math concepts, and social routines that prepare them for Pre-K success.

  • ABC blocks: Letter recognition, phonics, and early reading skills
  • Creative stations: Art, sensory play, and fine motor development
  • Group circle: Social skills, listening, and cooperative play
  • Caring teachers: Supportive guidance in a warm, nurturing environment
1’s Explorers Class (Ages 12–24 months) 3 - Copy
Kids By The Hour

VPK Classroom – Kindergarten Readiness

Our VPK classroom is designed to prepare children for kindergarten through structured learning balanced with creativity and play. Using the FunShine Express & Frog Street curriculum, children strengthen academic readiness while developing confidence and problem-solving skills.

  • Literacy & math centers: Reading readiness, numbers, and writing practice
  • STEAM activities: Science exploration, critical thinking, and discovery
  • Collaborative learning: Teamwork, communication, and self-regulation
  • Experienced educators: Focused instruction with individualized support

Big Kids Classroom – Growing Independence

The Big Kids classroom supports older preschool and school-age children as they build independence, leadership skills, and confidence. Activities are designed to encourage creativity, responsibility, and continued academic growth in a fun, engaging setting.

  • Project-based learning: Creativity, exploration, and imagination
  • Hands-on STEAM: Tools, experiments, and problem-solving challenges
  • Peer collaboration: Leadership, teamwork, and social development
  • Positive role models: Trusted teachers guiding growth and curiosity
Kids By The Hour