Federal Resource – The Head Start Program
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services, including early learning, health, and family well-being
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- Type
- Federal Program
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- Application Period
- Income Limit
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services, including early learning, health, and family well-being. Children’s readiness for school is fostered through individualized learning experiences and strong relationships with adults, play, and instruction. The programs include health and development screenings, nutritious meals, oral health, and mental health support. Families are connected with medical, dental, and mental health services to ensure children receive necessary services. Parents and families are supported in achieving goals like housing stability, continued education, and financial security.
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services, including early learning, health, and family well-being. Children’s readiness for school is fostered through individualized learning experiences and strong relationships with adults, play, and instruction. The programs include health and development screenings, nutritious meals, oral health, and mental health support. Families are connected with medical, dental, and mental health services to ensure children receive necessary services. Parents and families are supported in achieving goals like housing stability, continued education, and financial security.
Images & PDFs
Braiding Federal Funding to Expand Services
An infographic illustrating the process of integrating various funding streams to support providers in expanding services.
View Full ImageColorado Early Learning & Development Guidelines
A visual resource outlining developmental milestones and learning strategies for children in Colorado. It emphasizes collaborative, inclusive education approaches without stigmatization.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Rising Costs and Economic Security: The Role of Head Start
3/15/2022 | Coverage: national
This analysis highlights how the increasing cost of living in the US necessitates the need for programs like Head Start to provide economic support to families.
Source: Child Trends
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of Head Start on Family Well-Being
8/1/2021 | Coverage: national
This report examines the overall effects of the Head Start program on families, showcasing its role in improving financial stability and community engagement.
Source: Administration for Children and Families
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Head Start Program Improvement Act
9/29/2015This act aimed to improve the quality of Head Start programs by setting more rigorous performance standards.
Head Start Reauthorization
12/12/2007The Head Start Program was reauthorized, which included a focus on performance standards and the importance of data in program effectiveness.
Improving Head Start Quality
8/1/1994The Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act was signed into law, enhancing quality standards and increasing funding for programs.
Expansion of Eligibility
11/1/1972The eligibility criteria for the Head Start Program were expanded to include children from families receiving welfare, increasing access to the program.
Creation of Head Start Program
1/1/1965The Head Start Program was established as part of the Economic Opportunity Act, aimed at providing early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children.
FAQ
The Head Start Program is a federally funded program designed to promote the school readiness of children from low-income families by enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development. In Colorado, this program offers comprehensive services including early childhood education, health, nutrition, and family engagement.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
When enrolling your child in the Head Start Program, consider the following aspects to ensure a smooth process:
Here is a helpful checklist to prepare for enrollment:
- Gather income documentation (tax returns, pay stubs, etc.)
- Collect your child's immunization records
- Prepare any necessary identification documents
- Contact your local Head Start center for application procedures
By following this checklist, you can streamline the enrollment process for your child in Head Start.
Reference: https://www.coloradoheadstart.org
