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, 2025. 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 12, 2025
For questions, please call (904) 821-0552.

Caring Programs for Children Ages 1–12

We offer playful, reliable, and affordable child care for children ages 12 months 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.

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