Nelson County Early Education & Care Programs
The Go2Grow School Year 2026-2027 Application is now available!
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Search the directory below for early childhood care and education programs in Nelson County. Please contact us at (434) 326-5396 or help@go2grow.org if you need assistance. For a full list of documents required before applying, click here.
No-Cost Programs and Funding
Local Public School Preschool Programs require residency within that district to be eligible. Head Start/ Early Head Start programs also have varying residency requirements based on the program. Be prepared to submit proof of residency for these programs. Learn more.
Nelson County Public Schools Preschool (VPI)
- Tye River Elementary School
- Rockfish River Elementary School (Only accepting applications for SY26-27)
Reduced-Cost Programs and Funding
The Mixed Delivery Program provides publicly funded Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) services in licensed (non-faith-based), private ECCE settings for families who need/ prefer full-day, year-round childcare or preschool. The program addresses the growing demand for publicly funded ECCE in non-school-based settings. This funding support comes with a monthly copay that is paid to your program site and follows their parent handbook on payment schedules. While residency within a county is not required, you must be a Virginia resident. All guardians in the household must be employed, in an education/training, or job searching (only allowable for 90 days from eligibility determination) unless extenuating circumstances prevent so. Learn more. There is a copay associated with the Mixed Delivery Program that is paid to the center, copay is based on income level and will not exceed 5% of annual income.
The Child Care Subsidy Program assists families in paying childcare costs for children under age 13 who are not eligible to attend public school during the part of the day when public education is available, or children with special needs under age 18 who reside with the applicant. If you are eligible and are approved for services, the Subsidy Program can pay a portion of your childcare costs directly to the childcare provider. To apply for subsidy childcare, please visit www.commonhelp.virginia.gov. There is a copay associated with Child Care Subsidy that is paid to the center, copay is based on income level and will not exceed 5% of annual income. To learn more, click here: FY26 Copayment
Child Care Subsidy Program through Department of Social Services
Many early education and care centers throughout Virginia accept Child Care Subsidy payments. Connect with your local Department of Social Services to learn if there are sites within your community. You can visit Virginia CommonHelp to search for your local office phone number.
Mixed Delivery Program at Early Childhood Education Centers
Additional Private-Pay Programs
There are many types of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) options in each location throughout Ready Region Blue Ridge. Each program is unique in its hours, ages served, curriculum, and teaching styles. Links below direct you to the most up-to-date list of open centers and family day homes. Learn more.
Early Childhood Education Centers and Family Day Home Providers
Search All Programs
You can search local childcare centers, family day homes, religiously affiliated, and non-licensed care providers at: Finding Child Care | Child Care VA (virginia.gov). Just click the “search for care” link to see all your options. You will also be able to review health and safety violations through this portal.
Need More Help?
For additional information, please visit https://www.childcare.virginia.gov/families/paying-for-child-care
Family Support through Home Visiting Programs (These Programs Can Start with Mom During Pregnancy)
A home visiting program is an early childhood service that brings trained professionals into a family's home to support parents in fostering their child’s development. Through regular visits, families receive personalized guidance on parenting, child health and safety, early learning, and connecting to community resources.
Healthy Families
- Get FREE, personalized support for families, starting prenatally or during baby’s first few months
- Be connected to resources and supplements of needed baby items, such as diapers and wipes
- Receive activities and information about baby’s development and adjusting to have a new baby
- Talk to someone who is on your side and there to listen and answer your questions
Nelson County Area Participating Partners
Our partners work together to increase access, decrease barriers, and help families make informed decisions for their early childhood care and education needs.
Head Start
Nelson County Public Schools
Nelson County Area Resources & Supports
There are statewide resources available through the drop down menu at the top of this page. To learn more about programs that support families with children aged birth to five in the immediate area, click here.