The Head Start Program
Head Start programs support children's growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services
- Agency
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
Head Start programs support children's growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services. These services include early learning through individualized learning experiences, health support with screenings and medical services, and family well-being assistance with goals like housing stability and financial security.
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services. These services include early learning through individualized learning experiences, health support with screenings and medical services, and family well-being assistance with goals like housing stability and financial security.
Images & PDFs
A Needs Assessment of Alaska's Mixed ... Association of Alaska School Boards
This visual resource likely provides a demographic overview of child poverty rates across different regions in Alaska. It highlights areas with varying percentages of children in need, which could relate to assessing requirements for programs like the Head Start Program.
View Full ImageA Needs Assessment of Alaska's Mixed ...
An executive summary providing an overview of the needs assessment for Alaska's mixed communities, focusing on educational and support services.
View Full ImageEarly Care, Early Education, and Home Visiting in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities
A report exploring design options for assessing early childhood needs in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. It aims to inform and support these communities in evaluating and implementing early childhood programs.
View Full ImageEarly Head Start Parent Handbook
The handbook provides detailed information for parents involved with Kids' Corps, Inc. Early Head Start program, including guidance on support services and educational opportunities.
View Full ImageMulticultural Principles for Head Start Programs
A resource focused on multicultural principles for Head Start programs, addressing culture and home language in program systems and services.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Economic Impact of Head Start in Alaska
6/15/2021 | Coverage: state
This report focuses on the specific impacts of Head Start in Alaska, illustrating how it benefits families facing the high cost of living and low wage growth.
Source: University of Alaska Anchorage
Coverage Area: state
Head Start Programs: A Pathway to Economic Mobility
5/10/2020 | Coverage: national
This policy brief discusses how Head Start contributes to economic mobility for families, emphasizing the program's significance amid rising costs.
Source: Children's Defense Fund
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of Head Start on Child Development and Family Economic Stability
9/1/2020 | Coverage: national
This report examines the long-term effects of Head Start participation on child development and economic stability of families, emphasizing the program's role in supporting low-income communities.
Source: Administration for Children and Families (ACF)
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act
11/2/2015This act reauthorized Head Start and placed greater emphasis on outcomes and school readiness for children.
Head Start Reauthorization Act of 2007
12/12/2007This act reauthorized the Head Start program and included provisions for enhanced accountability and teacher training requirements.
Head Start Amendments of 1994
11/28/1994Amendments were made to improve the quality of programs, increase parental involvement, and promote collaboration with other educational programs.
Head Start Act Reauthorization
8/1/1974The Head Start Act was reauthorized to include new provisions for program accountability and increased funding.
Establishment of Head Start Program
1/1/1965The Head Start Program was established as part of the Economic Opportunity Act to provide preschool education, health, and nutrition services to low-income children.
FAQ
The Head Start Program encompasses several key components, including early childhood education, health screenings, nutrition services, family engagement, and support for children with special needs. These components work together to create a holistic approach to child development.
Here’s a checklist to help you understand what the Head Start Program offers:
- Early childhood education and school readiness activities
- Health screenings and referrals
- Nutritious meals and snacks
- Family support services
- Involvement opportunities for parents
This checklist provides a snapshot of the comprehensive support provided by the Head Start Program.
Reference: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/family-engagement/article/head-start-programs
The Head Start Program in Alaska is a federal initiative aimed at promoting school readiness for children under five from low-income families. It provides comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to help children succeed in school and life.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs/about/head-start
Eligibility for the Head Start Program generally includes children who are between the ages of three and five, from families with incomes below the federal poverty level, and children with disabilities. Specific criteria may vary by program location and funding sources.
