The Head Start Program is a federal initiative that helps young children from low-income families get ready for school and for life beyond the classroom. The program supports early learning, good health, and strong family relationships. It also involves parents at every step, making them key partners in their child’s development.
Head Start is more than just education. It focuses on a child’s full development—from birth to age five—by offering support in health, nutrition, emotional growth, and social skills.
What Is the Head Start Program?
Head Start is a U.S. government-funded program designed to support America’s most vulnerable children. It offers two types of services:
Head Start Preschool
This part of the program mainly supports 3- and 4-year-old children, helping them get ready for kindergarten. It includes learning activities, health screenings, nutritious meals, and more.
Early Head Start
This version of the program helps infants, toddlers, and pregnant women. It provides services like child development guidance, prenatal health support, and early education.
Head Start programs run in all 50 states, many tribal nations, and U.S. territories like Puerto Rico. Services are provided by over 1,600 local agencies, which adapt the program to meet the specific needs of their communities.
How Head Start Supports Families
Head Start is not just about helping children—it also supports families. Here’s how the program makes a difference:
Learning and Development
Children take part in activities that build their language, math, and problem-solving skills. These lessons are age-appropriate and designed to make learning fun and effective.
Health and Nutrition
The program ensures children get health check-ups, vaccinations, and access to doctors and dentists. They also receive healthy meals and snacks daily.
Family Well-Being
Parents receive help with job training, continuing education, and finding community resources. Head Start also offers parenting classes and support systems.
Parent Involvement
Parents are invited to join in classroom activities, decision-making, and even help run the local programs. This active role builds stronger families and helps children do better in school.
Who Can Enroll in Head Start?
Families must meet income guidelines to qualify for Head Start. The program gives priority to:
- Children from low-income families
- Homeless children
- Children in foster care
- Children with disabilities
- Families receiving public assistance like TANF or SSI
Each Head Start agency manages its own enrollment process, so requirements may vary slightly based on local needs.
Where Are Head Start Programs Offered?
Head Start services are available nationwide in:
- Every U.S. state
- Tribal communities
- U.S. territories like Puerto Rico
To find a program near you, you can visit the official Head Start locator website or contact a local community action agency.
The Head Start Program plays a vital role in preparing young children for a better future. By focusing on early learning, health, and strong family support, it helps break the cycle of poverty and gives every child a fair chance to succeed. Whether it’s through the Head Start Preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds or Early Head Start for infants and pregnant women, this program works hand-in-hand with families to build a solid foundation for lifelong learning and success.
FAQs
What is the Head Start Program?
Head Start is a federally funded program that supports low-income families by preparing young children for school through early education, health services, and family support.
Who is eligible for Head Start services?
Children from low-income households, foster care, those experiencing homelessness, and children with disabilities are eligible. Pregnant women can apply for Early Head Start.
What age groups does Head Start serve?
Head Start serves 3- and 4-year-old children. Early Head Start supports infants, toddlers, and pregnant women.
Where can I find a Head Start program?
Head Start programs are available in every U.S. state, tribal nation, and territories like Puerto Rico. Use the Head Start locator tool online to find one near you.
Are parents involved in the Head Start Program?
Yes, parents are encouraged to participate in classroom activities, program planning, and decision-making to support their child’s development.
