About GSRP
The Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) is Michigan’s state-funded preschool program for 4-year-olds who have factors that may place them at risk. The program uses developmentally appropriate practices in a play-based curriculum with the goal of preparing children to successfully enter kindergarten. The program is free to eligible families. Children must be 4 on or before September 1, 2018.
Why should I consider a high-quality preschool for my child?
Research on preschool programs and specific research on GSRP indicates that children participating in a high-quality preschool program show significant positive developmental differences when compared to children from the same backgrounds who did not attend a high-quality preschool program. High-quality GSRP programs prepare children to be successful in kindergarten and throughout life.
What will my child learn?
GSRP addresses key areas that a child needs to be ready for Kindergarten. Teachers focus on social/emotional readiness along with academics through a play-based curriculum using developmentally appropriate practices.
Programs use either the HighScope or Creative Curriculum where teachers and children are active partners in the learning process. Children will:
- Participate in experiences that build on their interests.
- Follow a daily routine, learn to take turns, cooperate, and share.
- Learn foundational literacy skills such as knowledge of the alphabet, rhyming, and concepts of print.
- Learn foundational mathematics skills such as one-to-one correspondence, patterning, and number sense.
- Develop problem-solving and self-help skills.