Universal Preschool (UPK) in Colorado: How to Get 15 Free Hours at The Meadows (and Why It’s a Game-Changer)
If you’ve got a kiddo headed to kindergarten next year, Colorado’s Universal Preschool (UPK) program can cover up to 15 hours per week of free, high-quality preschool—and yes, you can use those hours right here at The Meadows Early Learning Center in Parker. That’s real savings and real support for your child’s social-emotional growth, early literacy, math foundations, and all the “how to be a human in a classroom” skills we love. upk.colorado.govColorado Governor's Office
What is UPK (Universal Preschool) in Colorado?
UPK is a statewide program that gives families up to 15 free hours/week of preschool in the year before kindergarten. Some children qualify for additional hours based on factors like income, language, IEPs, and more (subject to funding and availability). Enrollment typically opens in late winter for the following school year, and you apply through the state’s UPK portal. upk.colorado.govColorado Governor's OfficeColorado Public Radio
TL;DR: If your child starts kindergarten next year, you may have 15 hours/week covered. You choose a participating preschool (hi 👋), and we work with you on the schedule that fits.
Why the 15 Free Hours Matter (Beyond Your Wallet)
High-quality preschool doesn’t just “keep kids busy”—it boosts school readiness, strengthens language and early math, supports social-emotional skills, and can reduce later needs for grade retention or special education. In other words, it’s a head start that keeps paying off. NIEERLearning Policy Institute
The Meadows Advantage (Parker, Lone Tree, Castle Rock—We See You)
At The Meadows, we blend play-based learning with purposeful skill-building:
Social–Emotional Learning every day (sharing, problem-solving, self-regulation).
Kindergarten-readiness routines (listening, following directions, transitions).
Literacy + Math through play (stories, centers, hands-on exploration).
Outdoor time + nature because wiggly bodies learn best when they move.
Wraparound care options to extend beyond your 15 free hours.
We’re a participating UPK provider in Parker, and we make the logistics painless so you can just… parent. (Radical concept, we know.)
How to Claim Your 15 Free Hours at The Meadows
Apply on the UPK Portal: Go to upk.colorado.gov and complete your family application. upk.colorado.gov
Choose Your Provider: Select The Meadows Early Learning Center (Parker) as your preferred site.
We’ll Confirm Your Match: We coordinate with the state and finalize your child’s schedule.
Add Wraparound (Optional): Need more than 15 hours? We offer extended-day options.
Pro tip: Enrollment windows open in winter, but you can still apply if space is available. If you’re late to the party, don’t panic—reach out and we’ll walk you through it. Colorado Public Radio
FAQ: Quick Answers Parents Actually Want
Is preschool free in Colorado?
For children in the year before kindergarten, UPK currently provides up to 15 hours/week free at participating programs, with potential extra hours for qualifying factors. upk.colorado.govColorado Governor's Office
Do 3-year-olds get anything?
Some 3-year-olds with qualifying factors may receive funded hours depending on local availability. Check the portal for your child’s eligibility.
Can I use my free hours at a private preschool like The Meadows?
Yes—UPK is portable to participating community sites (like us), not just school-district classrooms. upk.colorado.gov
When should I apply?
Enrollment typically opens late winter for the following school year. Earlier is better, but applying later can still work if spots remain.
Ready to Tour?
Come see our classrooms, meet our teachers, and picture your child thriving here. Book a tour or ask us anything about UPK and wraparound schedules. We’re friendly, fast, and big fans of checklists.