Baker Center

Baker Center is an early childhood center run by the Charlotte County school district for young children and their families. It offers free VPK, which provides three hours of instruction daily for four-year-olds, and Head Start for children ages 3 and 4, with a full-day option that can be combined with VPK. Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children from birth to age 3, and tuition-based care is available for families who don't qualify for subsidized programs.

Before and aftercare is offered at the center. A teen parent program provides childcare and support for students finishing their education. The center focuses on play-based learning that prepares children for kindergarten, and teachers and parents work together to set goals for each child. Families can apply online or with a printed form, and the center is in Punta Gorda.