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Child Care and Preschool

Free Preschool

Free, high-quality preschool programs for families in Oakland County, Michigan.

Every child deserves a strong start. Free preschool programs like GSRP and Head Start offer high-quality early learning at no cost for families who qualify, giving three- and four-year-olds the chance to grow, learn, and get ready for kindergarten in a caring, play-based environment. These programs spark curiosity, support school readiness, and help children build the skills they need to thrive.

Let’s Find the Right Fit

Start your preschool application here and take the first step toward finding the right program for your child. After you apply, a care coordinator will follow up to learn more about your family and help match you with a program you qualify for—making sure it’s the right fit for your child’s needs.

Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP)

GSRP is Michigan’s free Pre-K program for eligible four-year-olds—and it’s ranked #1 in the nation for a reason. In a safe, nurturing environment, children build social skills like sharing, listening, and making friends, while also developing early math, reading, and problem-solving through fun, hands-on activities. GSRP helps your child build confidence, curiosity, and the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.

Eligibility

  • For the 25/26 school year, your child must be 4 years old by 12/1/2025.

  • Children that are born between September 2, 2020 - December 1, 2021 are age eligible for GSRP. Families must be residents of Michigan. While there are no income requirements, families that need it most get priority.

  • Connect with us to find out more! Text "PRESCHOOL" to 844-456-5437 for more information.

Head Start

Head Start is a free preschool program for three- and four-year-olds that supports the whole child—and the whole family. In addition to a nurturing, play-based classroom, families get connected to a dedicated advocate who helps with parenting support, resources, and reaching your family’s goals. It’s more than preschool—it’s a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.

Eligibility

  • For the 24/25 school year, your child must be 3 or 4 years old by 9/1/2025.

  • Eligibility is based on household size and income.

  • Enrollment is prioritized based on income eligibility and other qualifying factors; families with special needs or foster children are encouraged to apply.

Follow these simple steps
to get your child enrolled in GSRP

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Step 1 - Call or Text: 844.456.5437 or complete the online application, scanning the QR code.

Step 2 - After you complete your application, the program you chose will contact you to get more information for their site.

Child's Age

To enroll your child you will need to provide at least one of these documents:

  • Birth Certificate

  • Passport

  • Medical or Dental document with birth date

  • Religious Certificate

Household Income

Please provide at least one of these documents for each parent:

  • W2

  • Tax Return

  • Last Pay Stub

  • Food Assistance Letter

  • Medicaid Card or Letter

Where You Live

Please provide at least one of these documents:

  • Utility Bill (With your name and your address)

  • Driver’s License

  • Lease Agreement

Essential Resources for Families

Find tools, guides, and support to help you navigate your child's early years.

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Need Parenting Support?

Call or Text: 844.456.5437

Parenting can be tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you need advice, developmental screening, or resources like free preschool or childcare, we're here to help. Reach out today for guidance and support tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find tools, guides, and support to help you navigate your child's early years.

How do I know if my child is eligible for the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP)?

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Children must turn four years old on or before September 1st of a given school year. However, a provision exists for families requesting early enrollment for children who will turn four after September 1st, but on or before December 1st.

Is there a cost associated with GSRP? Do I make too much money? Why do you need to collect income documentation?

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There are no current income guidelines for GSRP. Income is used to determine when your child can enroll in a program. All age-eligible children can qualify for GSRP.

What is the process for enrollment?

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Phase 1: Complete the online application in MiECC and upload the required documents (proof of income, address, and a copy of the child's birth certificate).


Once a care coordinator verifies documents, they will send a referral to your preferred program. 


Phase 2: The program will contact you with the next steps for enrollment and provide you with a start date.

What are the program requirements for becoming a GSRP program? Is it just a daycare?

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Each Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) picks a curriculum from the approved list. Regardless of the chosen curriculum, teaching teams create fair and meaningful learning experiences by utilizing a child-centered, hands-on curriculum model. 


This approach is recommended for PreK and supported by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Still have questions?

Find tools, guides, and support to help you navigate your child's early years.

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