Just Kids Early Childhood Learning Center works in partnership with local public schools to sponsor Universal Prekindergarten programs. Programs are offered on-site at Longwood, Patchogue-Medford, Hampton Bays, Mattituck-Cutchogue, Middle Country, Riverhead and William Floyd School districts and at Just Kids sites at Middle Island and Baldwin. The Universal Prekindergarten program provides eligible four-year olds with the opportunity to participate in a high-quality early learning experience. The program is aligned with New York State Prekindergarten Learning Standards that ensure continuity with instruction in the early elementary grades and is integrated with the local school district’s instructional program in kindergarten through grade twelve. The program provides early literacy and emergent reading instruction based on effective, evidence-based early childhood practices. The program includes the five critical elements of early reading with an emphasis on phonological awareness, expressive and receptive language, and vocabulary development. The daily activities are learner-centered and are designed to promote healthy child growth and development. Children are encouraged to be independent through balanced learning activities both individually and small groups.