Park Authority

CONTACT INFORMATION: Open during regular business hours 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday
703-324-8700 TTY 711
12055 Government Center Pkwy.
Fairfax, Virginia 22035
Jai Cole
Executive Director

Department Resources

ABCs of the Park Authority’s Preschools, Tots Programs and Drop-In Child Care

children at the rec centerChildren form lasting memories as they learn while attending Fairfax County Park Authority preschools. FCPA runs two preschools licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services that help young children prepare for full time school:

Kids Play Preschool at:

  • Franconia Rec Center, 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria
  • Stone Mansion, 3900 Stoneybrooke Drive, Alexandria

Spring Hill Rec Center Preschool at:

  • Spring Hill Rec Center, 1239 Spring Hill Road, McLean

FCPA’s preschools provide a welcoming space that nurtures the emotional, social and intellectual growth of young minds. Children engage in a variety of age-appropriate activities. Through outdoor play, circle time and educational activities. Children are guided by caring and dedicated educators and encouraged to explore, play and learn alongside their peers. Staff working at FCPA preschools are CPR- and First Aid-certified, complete required background checks and have prior experience working with children.

Programs range from two to five days a week and promote independence, enhance school-readiness and foster positive self-image. Make sure your child doesn’t miss out on this incredible opportunity. Learn more and start the registration process by filling out the Preschool Enrollment Inquiry form.

Young children also grow and develop new skills in the many classes the Park Authority offers each season. Check out the Children’s Corner category for numerous fun classes to engage young minds this fall -- from learning dance and basic movement to building the fundamentals in gymnastics and sports to getting creative with arts, building blocks and instruments. Help children learn lifesaving skills in the water by joining children’s swimming classes: Baby & Me for ages 6 to 18 months, Toddler & Me for ages 19 months to 3 years, and Pee Wee Paddler for ages 3 to 7 years.

Children also have fun and stay engaged in our Drop-In Childcare rooms. These services cost $3 per child for Rec Center members and $10 per child for non-members. They are available on on a first-come, first-served basis at three Rec Centers: Cub Run, Oakmont and Mount Vernon.

Children ages 6 months to 10 years can enjoy arts and crafts, coloring activities, board games, books and various other activities. Fairfax County Park Authority staff who are certified in CPR and First Aid supervise the room. Parents and guardians must remain in the building and the maximum stay is two hours. Staff provide focused care for children and can contact guardians if needed.

Explore these opportunities and come out to learn and grow with the Park Authority this fall.

Fairfax Virtual Assistant