FAQs

Frequently
Asked
Questions

We have come up with a list of the most common questions people have about the Early Learning Program.

Contact us if you don’t see your question: elp@ycorange.org

  • The goal is to provide affordable childcare for preschool-aged children in the City of Orange and beyond. In addition, we strive to encourage parents/guardians who are seeking community and provide them with education and the opportunity to improve their parenting methods.

  • The ELP is for infants and children ages 0-5 years old.

  • The ELP is not a licensed preschool, rather a cooperative program run by its members. All parents/guardians who enroll their children in the program become members. All members take interest in the trajectory of the program and volunteer their time into its well-being.

  • The program operates out of the Friends Church Orange campus:

    426 W Almond Ave.
    Orange, CA 92866

  • Our team offers a variety of talents and backgrounds, from years of experience in children's ministries and KinderCare, to first-hand experience as parents themselves. Every team member is background checked, LiveScanned, and CPR certified.

  • No, the program is open to anyone in the City of Orange and beyond.

  • While the ELP operates out of and works closely alongside Friends Church Orange, the ELP is a program within the Youth Centers of Orange, under The HUB OC family of brands. For more information on The HUB, visit thehuboc.org.

  • Beginning October 21, 2024, the ELP will be open every Monday through Friday from 8:30am - 1pm. Please refer to the ELP Annual Program Calendar for a full list of dates and holiday closures.

  • Yes, our program will keep the same hours of operation year round, closely following the Orange Unified School District’s calendar. Please refer to the ELP Annual Program Calendar for a full list of dates and holiday closures.

  • Your child is not required to attend the full 3 hours, however should you opt for a shorter timeframe, the cost of the program will not change.

  • We absolutely welcome siblings to the program, as long as they are age 5 and under. There is currently no discount available for siblings entering the program.

  • Parents/Guardians are asked to participate in the program once per month (3 hours). This participation can be by any parent, relative, or guardian of the child, and can be fulfilled a number of ways. Please refer to our Parent/Member Policies for more details.

  • No, the ELP does not require your child to be potty trained. We ask that you please bring the specific diapering products your child requires to the ELP, labeled with your child’s name on it.

  • We will offer one snack time per day. If your child has any allergies or dietary restrictions, we ask that you please bring a snack alternative to the ELP, labeled with your child’s name on it. You may also opt your child out of snack time.

  • Daily activities include story time, music & movement, sensory bins, arts & crafts, games and free play. Curriculum is educational and faith-based, but light and fun given the age range.

  • If your child cannot attend due to an ELP-wide Holiday closure, your child will automatically be issued a make up day in their account. If your child cannot attend due to illness or vacation, please contact the ELP to schedule a make up. It is the parent's responsibility in either case to contact ELP to determine which day the child will attend to cash in their make up.

  • If you would like to give monetarily, you may set up a one-time or monthly donation to the program. Or, you may donate supplies. Please contact the ELP staff for more information on what supplies are needed.