Guidelines are presented for New York's prekindergarten program for 4-year-old children from economically disadvantaged families, which is intended to provide the young child with a comfortable, secure, and inviting transition from home to school. Eligible providers are public school districts and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services, who can apply for state funding to operate these programs. Application and approval procedures are described briefly. Program models are cited, and the following program requirements are outlined: needs assessment, recruitment and selection process, physical facilities, transportation, safety and sanitation, health and nutrition, educational program (staffing, equipment, discipline, evaluation), staff development, parent involvement, social services, continuity of program and services, and coordination with other early childhood programs and community agencies. Compliance with New York State Prekindergarten regulations is also addressed. Definitions, a publication list, and sample forms are appended. (LB)