Early Childhood Division
Early Childhood Division
The Early Childhood Division (ECD) serves young children (birth to 5 years), families, and childcare providers at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center, 4850 Mark Center Dr., 6th Floor. | 703.746.5927
ECD Services
BIRTH - 3 YEARS EARLY INTERVENTION
The Infant & Toddler Connection of Alexandria/Parent Infant Education(PIE) Program - Provides early intervention supports and services to infants and toddlers who are not developing as expected or who have a medical condition that can delay normal development. Early intervention supports and services are available for all eligible children birth through age two and their families regardless of the family’s ability to pay. The PIE program is part of the statewide early intervention program known as the Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia. Services offered include service coordination, developmental therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work services, speech therapy and vision services
3 - 5 YEARS PRESCHOOL AND SCHOOL READINESS
Early Childhood Wellness - The City of Alexandria’s Early Childhood Wellness program offers support for young children (birth to age 5) and their caregivers, focusing on mental health and early intervention. Our goal is to support the social, emotional, and behavioral well-being of young children, ensuring positive outcomes for them and their caregivers.
ALX Preschool - ALX Preschool accepts applications for children ages 3 and 4. Eligible children are matched with one of 16 providers in Alexandria, offering flexible hours and evidence-based curriculums. To apply, children must be 3 by September 30, reside in Alexandria, and meet income guidelines.
0-13 YEARS CHILD CARE PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
Child Care Subsidy Assistance - Families may be eligible for a child care subsidy for children aged 0-13 if both parents are working, going to school or participating in training. Families pay a single fee based on their income directly to the provider of care. The remainder of the cost of care is paid by the Department of Community & Human Services. To be screened for this program, contact the Early Childhood Division at 703.746.5437 (KIDS).
3- 21 YEARS YOUTH INTELLECUAL DEVELOPMENTAL WAIVERS
Medicaid Waiver Application and Case Management - The mission of Developmental Disability Services is to maximize independence of clients served in the most integrated community settings with the necessary supports. Services are available to residents of the City of Alexandria with a diagnosis of an intellectual disability before age 18 or developmental disability before the age of 22. Children and young adults under the age of 22 years old can seek services with the Youth Intellectual and Developmental Disability Program through the intake phone number at 571.213.7963.
CHILD CARE PROVIDERS
Family Child Care Homes - Family Child Care homes are private homes in which an adult provides care for children. All family child care homes in Alexandria caring for 5 or fewer children must be registered with the Early Childhood Division. Providers caring for more than five children (including their own under 14) must have an assistant, a Special Use Permit from the City and a license from the state.
Provider Development - The Provider Development team supports individuals in completing the necessary steps to become an in-home childcare provider. Additionally, they offer guidance, training, and monitoring to help existing local agency regulated and state licensed providers in the City of Alexandria. The program also provides ongoing training and professional development opportunities both in-person and virtually. For inquiries about becoming a registered childcare provider or to request a training, please contact us at earlychildhooddevelopment@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.5437 (KIDS). You can also visit our offices from 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center.