The purpose of this chapter is as follows:
(a) To provide an inclusive and cost-effective preschool program that provides high-quality learning experiences, coordinated services, and referrals for families to access health and social-emotional support services through full- and part-day programs.
(b) To encourage community-level coordination in support of preschool and early childhood services.
(c) To provide an inclusive, developmentally appropriate, and culturally and linguistically responsive preschool environment that is nurturing for all children in the programs.
(d) To provide family engagement activities that support positive parenting practices and enhance understanding of human growth and development.
(e) To promote strengthening families and access to resources that prevent and address child abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
(f) To support the cognitive and social emotional development of all children, including children with exceptional needs, children experiencing developmental delays, and children experiencing trauma.
(g) To promote and support home language and development of multilingual capabilities to ensure all children attain their full potential.
(h) To establish a framework that promotes equitable access to quality early learning experiences through the expansion of preschool services.
(i) To empower parents and family choice by providing information and resources for choosing a high-quality preschool program that meets the needs of the family.
(j) To inform parents and families of their right to understand and evaluate the quality and health and safety requirements of the preschool program.
(Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 116, Sec. 3. (AB 131) Effective July 23, 2021.)