In Leander ISD, we believe young children develop, learn, and thrive in a play-based environment rich in language, positive social interactions, and strong family partnerships.

To support this belief, we value working with families and children from when they are born. Studies show that 90% of brain development occurs before the age of five.

“Parents are a child’s first and best teacher and we have several early education programs in place that support the development of each and every child to become what they are destined to be,” said Senior Early Childhood Coordinator Erin Garner. “Students who engage in high-quality early childhood programs are more prepared for kindergarten. Our goal is to support all families in our area as they prepare their children for learning success.”

Our Parents as Teachers (PAT) program is a free early education program for families with children from ages birth through five years of age who are interested in building a strong foundation for academic success. We have in-home and on-site services and classes to help our parents make the most of every learning opportunity, in a fun and playful way!

Personal visits provide one-on-one interaction with the parent and parent educator where they can share their knowledge around the child’s development. With PAT provided activities and play experiences, parents learn how their meaningful interactions foster their child’s growth, learning, and behavior and how each experience connects with their child’s development. 

Group opportunities include indoor and outdoor playgroups, classes on how to connect with your baby during pregnancy and the early months, classes on how to manage the toddler years, preschool academy, family wellness, and more! 

The LISD Parents as Teachers program Facebook page is where information about upcoming events and activities that you and your little ones can participate in is regularly posted. 

In addition to Parents as Teachers, Leander ISD offers a variety of other early childhood education opportunities to help our community thrive: 

  • FREE Full Day Prekindergarten – for qualifying children at select campuses across the district.
  • Young Parent Services – A program for teen parents, including prenatal and postpartum educational services, offered both at school and at home, for support of current students and their young children.
  • Early Childhood Special Education –  For students that meet eligibility and need special education services, LISD offers a continuum of services designed to meet the individual needs of our students. Services are offered on a variety of campuses throughout the district.
  • Child Find – locating, identifying, and evaluating children from birth to 21 years of age and their possible need for special education and related services. 

Additional information about our special education programs

We can’t wait to partner with you and your little ones as we help them grow, prepare, and develop for school and beyond!