As a parent, you’ll have a unique opportunity to learn alongside your child, sharing in those magical “aha” moments as they discover new things about the world. Let’s explore how K12’s PreK program can give your child the academic and social foundation they need for success.

“Pre-Kindergarten” vs. “Transitional Kindergarten”

You might have come across terms like “pre-kindergarten” or “transitional kindergarten” and wondered what’s best for your child. While schools and states may use different names, these programs are designed for young learners who aren’t quite ready for a full kindergarten curriculum or don’t yet meet the age requirements for kindergarten. K12’s PreK program, for example, is an ideal choice if you’re looking to build those foundational skills early in a structured and flexible setting that meets your child’s needs and interests.

Laying the Groundwork: Why Foundational Skills Matter

In the preschool years, learning is all about building a solid foundation of essential skills. In these early years, your child is soaking up knowledge and developing essential skills that set the stage for future academic success. Our PreK curriculum introduces early literacy, numeracy, and social emotional growth in a natural and exciting way for young minds. Your child might start recognizing letters and sounds—the building blocks of reading—or playing with numbers and shapes in ways that lay the foundation for math skills.

And it’s not just academics. K12’s PreK program also emphasizes social emotional skills to help your child build confidence, empathy, and communication skills. Your child will learn to express their emotions, share, and interact with others, creating a positive academic and personal growth environment.

Learning Through Play: Because Fun Drives Engagement

Kids learn best through play, and K12’s PreK program puts this idea into action! Play-based learning is a core element of our preschool curriculum, combining hands-on activities with educational goals to make learning enjoyable. When your child learns through play, they’re more engaged, curious, and open to discovering new things.

Imagine your child exploring nature to learn about colors and textures, building with blocks to grasp basic math concepts, or listening to a story that develops language skills. Through activities like these, play-based learning reinforces what they’ve learned while making it easier to retain information. This approach builds foundational skills and keeps learning lively and enjoyable while keeping kids more engaged, curious, and open to discovering new things.

What’s included in K12’s PreK program?

K12’s PreK program offers a variety of tools to make learning engaging and effective for your child:

• Certified Teachers: Our instructors are state-certified and trained in online teaching techniques, bringing passion and creativity to every class. They lead live virtual classes that make learning interactive and fun!
• Live Classroom Sessions: Your child will dive into engaging, live virtual classes packed with songs, stories, games, and hands-on activities. And don’t worry about missing a session—every class is recorded, so your child can revisit the lessons anytime.
• Curriculum in a Box: We send you everything your child needs for hands-on learning! From numbers and letters to art supplies, the box arrives packed with materials to keep your child engaged and excited about each activity.
• Social Emotional Learning Lessons: Developing social-emotional skills is key for preschoolers, and K12 includes engaging video lessons that promote physical and mental health. These fun, interactive videos can help your child build confidence, empathy, and self-expression in a fun, interactive way.

Learning Anywhere: Flexibility in the K12 PreK Program

One of the best parts of K12’s PreK program is its flexibility. With K12, learning doesn’t have to happen in a traditional classroom—your child can learn anywhere! Whether at home, at the park, or out exploring the community, K12’s curriculum can adapt to wherever your family is. The program emphasizes movement and activities, encouraging your child to get up, move, and explore.

Imagine your child counting steps on a walk, identifying colors in nature, or even using chalk to practice shapes on the sidewalk. This focus on movement and exploration keeps your child active and makes learning a part of their everyday life.

How to Know if Your Child Is Ready for Kindergarten

Every child develops at their own pace, and K12’s PreK program is designed to meet them right where they are. If you’re wondering whether your child is ready for kindergarten, we’re here to support you. We offer resources like a kindergarten readiness webinar with checklists and practical tips to help you understand what’s needed for a smooth transition.

Building a Strong Foundation for Lifelong Learning

With K12’s PreK program, you’re not only preparing your child for kindergarten—you’re setting them up for a lifetime of curiosity and learning. Our program combines solid academics, play-based learning, and flexibility that fits your family’s lifestyle, making it an excellent way to foster a love for learning.

Ready to give your child an enriching and adaptable PreK experience? Explore what K12’s PreK program has to offer, and let’s build a bright future together. If you’re ready to take the next step, start the enrollment process today and join a community committed to helping your child thrive.

But did you know there are different types of online learning programs for school-aged children? More specifically, both public and private school programs can be found online.

This means you can choose between a public or private education without compromising the flexibility of home-based learning. The key is deciding which option best suits your child’s unique needs and your family’s situation.

Are you weighing your child’s choice between online public vs. private school? Confident that home learning is the right fit for your family? If so, you’re in the right place. We’re here to compare private and public online schooling options so you can make an informed, confident decision about your child’s future.

What’s the difference between public and private online schools?

There are three major differences between an online private school vs. public school that parents should be aware of when doing their research.

The three key differences are:

1. Tuition
   The cost of public vs. private school is one of the first factors to consider when comparing these options. Public schools, including those online, are tuition-free. Parents may still encounter fees for testing, materials, or extracurricular activities, but these tend to be minimal compared to private schooling.
   
   Private online schools, however, charge tuition. While the cost of a private education online may be more affordable than brick-and-mortar options, tuition can still burden some families financially. For this reason, the cost of private school may be a deciding factor for parents.
   
   It is good to note that some online private schools, including some powered by K12, offer scholarships. Please research your specific state school options for full details on tuition costs and financial aid.
   
   
2. Class Sizes
   Another important difference in public vs. private schools is class size. Private schools often have smaller classes, which means students can receive more one-to-one attention from their teachers. This personalized learning environment can make a big difference in student engagement and academic success.
   
   On the other hand, public online schools often have larger class sizes. While this can limit individualized attention, many public programs are designed to provide support in other ways, such as through accessible resources and standardized curriculums. Plus, online public school teachers are often trained in how to engage students in a virtual environment.
   
   
3. Curriculum
   When comparing private vs. public school options, consider what kind of education you want for your child. Public schools use curriculums aligned with state standards, ensuring consistency in course offerings and teaching. However, they may offer less specialized courses.
   
   Private online schools are not bound by the same guidelines, giving them more flexibility to create unique and specialized programs. These schools may offer a broader range of subjects, including advanced courses, internships, or project-based learning that encourages creativity and independent thinking.

Explore an in-depth comparison of online private vs. public schools to learn more about the key differences.

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Now that we’ve covered the core factors parents should know, let’s take a closer look at the unique benefits of completing school online. You’ll see how online education offers many advantages that can significantly enhance students’ learning experience and set them up for continued success.

Flexibility in Online Learning

One of the most common reasons parents explore public vs. private online education is for the flexibility it offers. Online learning allows families to create schedules that suit their lives and children to learn at their own pace. This flexibility can be a game-changer for students balancing school with extracurricular activities, travel, or other commitments.

In both public and private online schools, students can enjoy greater flexibility in when they complete assignments, offering a level of freedom that traditional schools may not provide. One benefit of K12-powered private schools is an even greater level of flexibility regarding course schedules and self-paced options.

Customization and Specialized Programs

Both public and private online schools provide opportunities for personalized learning, but private schools tend to lead the way when it comes to specialized programming. Private schools often offer tailored curricula, allowing students to choose from a variety of courses, including advanced classes that can even earn them college credits. Additionally, many private schools offer unique project-based learning experiences and internships, giving students a head start on their future careers.

While public online schools also offer some elective courses (K12-powered online public schools actually have a wide range of electives in their diverse course catalogs, including advanced and dual enrollment options), private institutions generally have more flexibility to design innovative programs that meet individual student interests.

Curriculum and Teacher Quality

Online learning can vary in terms of curriculum, depending on whether you choose private or public school. This is mainly due to the regulatory guidelines to which public schools are subject. Your child can still benefit from a great online public school education; it simply means it’s a more standardized approach to teaching and learning.

The state-aligned curriculum in public schools ensures that all students—regardless of economic status or location—receive a consistent and comprehensive education. The purpose is to prepare students equally for tests, college, and future careers. Online public schools also follow state testing requirements.

Alternatively, online private schools don’t have to follow the same requirements for curriculum or testing. They focus on providing each student with individualized and specialized instruction that supports their unique learning style, strengths, and interests.

Costs and Resources

We briefly mentioned the costs associated with online private schools vs. public schools, but let’s expand on the topic further for a more detailed perspective.

Online Public School Costs

Public online schools are tuition-free, but parents may still need to cover:

• A reliable computer or tablet, required software, and internet services
• Standardized testing fees
• Additional workbooks, textbooks, or other materials
• Participation fees for field trips or in-person events
• Extra fees for dual enrollment programs (earning college credits in high school)

K12-powered public schools are tuition-free and educational materials are provided, often including tech materials like computers. Please research specific school options in your state for a full sense of any costs.

Online Public School Costs

Private online schools are tuition-based* and often come with additional expenses, such as:

• Enrollment or application fees
• Technology fees for maintaining online platforms
• Costs for specialized programs or electives
• Fees for Advanced Placement (AP)® exams or other standardized tests

*Fees and costs associated with online schools can vary significantly from one institution to another. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the specific school directly to clarify any and all expenses, ensuring a clear understanding of the financial commitments involved in enrolling their child. Always verify details to make an informed decision that aligns with your family’s needs.

Socialization and Extracurriculars

This is a key area where online public schools offer an edge over private education. Due to the larger student populations enrolled in online public schools, there’s a greater demand for social committees and extracurricular programming.

Popular activities offered in the public system include:

• Art competitions
• Esports leagues
• Field trips
• Peer study groups
• Science clubs, art clubs, leadership clubs, etc.
• Online workshops or seminars
• Live online events
• Mentorship programs

Online private schools may offer fewer socialization opportunities due to their smaller student populations, but they may still provide some great options, including:

• Field trips
• Small virtual clubs (chess, coding, reading, etc.)
• Online workshops or seminars
• Live online events
• Mentorship programs

But remember, this is a general overview. It’s always best to research specific online public or private schools to see their social activities and extracurricular programs. Each school is different, and some provide a broad range of virtual clubs, events, or even in-person gatherings to help students stay connected. What matters is finding a school that supports your child’s social development alongside their academics since it makes a big difference to their overall learning experience.

K12 offers both public and private school students extensive extracurricular and social opportunities.

Is online private school better than public school?

Concerned parents who want to make the best decision for their child often ask, “Is private school better than public?” The answer? No.

Many people believe that public schools are better than private, or vice versa, but the truth is that either option can lead to a high-quality education. Plus, both can provide your child with a strong foundation of knowledge to help them achieve their post-secondary goals and obtain fulfilling careers. So, neither choice is automatically better than the other—it really comes down to what fits best with your family’s unique situation and your child’s needs.

Making the Best Choice for Your Child

Choosing between online public vs. private education is a big decision, and your careful consideration reflects that you care about your child’s future. At K12, we’re here to help you find the right balance of flexibility, support, and academic excellence. Our programs offer the personalized attention your child needs to thrive, with options for both public and private online schooling.

If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re confident K12 has the resources to help your child succeed. Discover K12’s online school programs and find the best fit for your child’s education.

From cyberbullying to schoolyard safety, the challenges our children face can affect their mental health and well-being, leaving us searching for safe and supportive learning solutions.

We understand how it feels to want the best for the children we love. K12 is a company made up of parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, siblings, and teachers who value education and care about the future of all kids.  We believe every student deserves a safe space to learn and grow. 

We’re committed to making sure every student feels comfortable and respected so they can focus on school. Because that’s how it should be. 

You can learn more about how we practice that philosophy through our K12 Kindness initiative.

Online School Can Provide a Solution to Bullying

Families just like yours choose online school for many different reasons, including wanting a safe space for students who’ve experienced bullying.

Hear more from parents who may sound a bit like you and your family. 

Parents like Barbie. Her daughter Jaelynn is a 7th grade student who experienced bullying at school because she has some challenges taking tests. Now enrolled in online school, Jaelynn can work at her own pace and gets extra help from her teachers when she needs it. 

“The reason we started with [K12] is because of the smaller class sizes. I was a little bit worried at first because she is kind of shy, and I was worried about her social skills, but we decided that it was the best option because of being bullied and because … she could focus more on her schoolwork.

Barbie, parent¹ 

Spoiler alert: This story involves some pretty cute goats.

Meet Windy. She’s a mom to four kids, including two with special needs. Her daughter Zoe is in 4th grade and her online school provides all the support services she needs for her autism and ADHD— without taking her away from her courses and leaving her feeling excluded from her classmates. 

“Zoe has a lot on her plate with her schedule because she receives so many services with K12. She has occupational therapy, counseling, and speech therapy. So this makes her day longer than if she were in brick-and-mortar school, but she’s not missing anything. If she [were] in brick-and-mortar, they would pull her out of her general ed classes to go to those services. That opens the opportunity for bullying and exclusion. This way, [at] online school, she gets everything … she needs detailed and focused on Zoe specifically.”

Windy, parent²

You can read more about how online school works for Zoe and her siblings. Their story may hit home if you also care for children with special needs or unique medical situations.

Students and parents aren’t the only ones who see the difference online school can make as a solution to bullying. The teachers see it too. Meet Mr. Damian.

“I taught three years before coming here to teach for [K12]. And in those first three years, I saw a lot of kids picking on each other, bullying … and just so many terrible social situations. In my switch to the virtual setting, that kind of thing is now basically gone. Students come in and they get to just make friends, which is fantastic for them.”

Mr. Damian, 5th grade teacher³

You can hear more from Mr. Damian about his passion for creating a welcoming online classroom.

More Stories From Online Students

Bullying can be hard to talk about, and we truly appreciate the students and families that have shared their experiences with us. Hear from more students about how online learning with K12 helped them find a safe space at school.

Play Video

Aniya, High School Student

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Dorthy, Middle School Student

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Austin, High School Student

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Bryanna, High School Student

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Are you looking for a solution to bullying? Would learning from the comfort and safety of home benefit your child? 

In a survey of parents, 44% said they enrolled their students in a K12-powered school because of safety and/or bullying-related concerns at a previous school.⁴

Find out what K12-powered options are available in your state, or contact an enrollment consultant today to learn more. 

¹Barbie is the parent of a 2023 student at a K12-powered school in CO, and their statement reflects their experience at their child’s school.
²Windy is the parent of a 2022 student at a K12-powered school in CA, and their statement reflects their experience at their child’s school.
³Damian is a 2022 teacher at a K12-powered school in VA, and their statement reflects their experience at their school.
⁴K12 Enrollment Satisfaction Survey, March 2022