Not that you need a reminder, but raising kids is pricey and can put a big ol’ dent in the bank account. However, despite its expensive reputation, Colorado is generous to kids, providing world-class freebies throughout their youth. Here are some free programs for Colorado kids.
1. Imagination Library
Ages: Infant to 5 years old
Purpose: To promote literacy.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library sends one free book each month to children ages 0-5 years old who are registered in participating areas.
2. Elitch Gardens’ Pre-K Pass
Ages: 3 to 5 years old
Purpose: Absolutely just for fun.
Register for Elitch Gardens’ Pre-K Pass by May 17, 2020, and your pre-K kiddo gets free unlimited visits to the theme and water park for the 2020 season.
3. One Book Colorado
Ages: 4 years old
Purpose: To support literacy and encourage families to read together.
A free copy of the One Book Colorado selection is made available to Colorado 4-year-olds through public libraries and Denver Preschool Program classrooms. Check the Pickup Locations page for book giveaway locations.
4. Full-Day Kindergarten
Ages: 5 years old
Purpose: To make early education opportunities accessible for all children.
Full-day kindergarten is tuition-free for all Colorado children.
5. Every Kid Outdoors
Ages: 4th grade
Purpose: To connect kids to nature and U.S. history through the national park system.
Every Kid Outdoors offers a pass during a child’s 4th grade school year (and the summer after) for free access to national parks across the country.
6.5th Grade Passport Program
Ages: 5th grade
Purpose: To get kids active and give every child a chance to experience Colorado’s mountain sports.
The 5th Grade Passport offers Colorado 5th graders three free days of skiing or riding at each of the 22 Colorado ski areas; a total of 66 days of free skiing.
7. Denver Art Museum
Ages: Infant to 18 years old
Purpose: To provide kids with access to art and programming at DAM.
General admission to the Denver Art Museum is free to youth age 18 and under.
