Funding & Financial Support
At Academy of Early Childhood Learning, we believe every child deserves access to a strong educational foundation, regardless of financial circumstance. While we are a private preschool and learning center, there are several funding resources available to help qualifying families offset the cost of childcare and early education in Columbia, Missouri.
Explore the options below to see what may be available for your family:
Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) offers financial assistance for eligible families who need childcare while working, attending school, or participating in job training.
Highlights:
- Available for children up to age 13
- Based on income and household size
- Can be used toward licensed providers, including AECL if eligible
Learn more & apply: dese.mo.gov/childhood/child-care-subsidy/families
Child Care Aware® of Missouri
Need help finding programs or navigating financial assistance? Child Care Aware® of Missouri provides free guidance to families and connects them to local resources, sliding-scale programs, and scholarship opportunities.
Visit: mo.childcareaware.org or call 866‑892‑3228
Columbia Parks & Recreation Financial Assistance
Families residing in Columbia may qualify for fee assistance for youth programs, including some before- and after-school options.
Serves ages 2–17
Based on income eligibility
Apply through the Activity & Recreation Center (ARC)
More info: como.gov/parks-and-recreation
Request Your FREE Parent Pack
We know that choosing an academy is an extremely important decision, based on many different factors. We’d love to send you a copy of our FREE parent pack, full of helpful information about our facility and a checklist of information for you to use as you explore your child care options.
Request your copy now by clicking the button below.
Need Help Navigating Funding?
We’re happy to support families as they explore funding opportunities. Please contact our office at 537-441-0101 or [email protected] for guidance on which programs may apply to your situation.
At AECL, we are committed to helping families access high-quality early learning opportunities through compassionate service and trusted community connections.
Contact Us
3210 S Providence Rd, Columbia, MO 65203
HOURS OF OPERATION
6:30AM–5:45PM, M-F
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