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
- Agency
- Administration for Children and Families
- Type
- Federal Resource
- Phone
- 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. Children receive health screenings, nutritious meals, and mental health support. Programs strengthen parent-child relationships and engage families in their children's development.
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. Children receive health screenings, nutritious meals, and mental health support. Programs strengthen parent-child relationships and engage families in their children’s development.
Images & PDFs
2016 Head Start Community Assessment Update: Orange County Government
An update providing demographic data, including population estimates from 2014 for Orange County, with a focus on Hispanic/Latino representation, sourced from the U.S. Census.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Addressing Stigma and Promoting Equity: The Role of Head Start
3/10/2020 | Coverage: national
This report analyzes the societal perceptions surrounding aid programs like Head Start and their implications on equity and stigma.
Source: Administration for Children and Families
Coverage Area: national
Head Start and Community Development
9/20/2021 | Coverage: national
This national report examines the role of Head Start in fostering community resilience and reducing stigma associated with receiving public assistance.
Source: National Head Start Association
Coverage Area: national
Rising Costs and the Need for Early Childhood Education Programs
1/15/2023 | Coverage: national
This report discusses how economic pressures are increasing the necessity for early childhood programs, highlighting Head Start as a critical resource.
Source: Child Trends
Coverage Area: national
The Economic Impact of Head Start in Florida
6/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report details the significant economic benefits of the Head Start Program in Florida, showcasing how it helps low-income families and boosts local economies.
Source: Florida Head Start Association
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
Head Start Act Reauthorization
12/10/2015The Head Start Act was reauthorized to expand services and enhance the program's focus on school readiness.
Head Start Program Reauthorization
8/14/2007The program was reauthorized to improve quality standards and ensure services were culturally relevant and effective.
Early Head Start Program Established
9/30/1994The Early Head Start program was created to provide comprehensive services to pregnant women and families with infants and toddlers.
Head Start Act Amendment
12/16/1970Amendments to the Head Start Act aimed to enhance the program's focus on child development and education, increasing federal funding.
Launch of Head Start Program
1/8/1965The Head Start Program was created as part of the War on Poverty to provide early childhood education, health, and nutrition services to low-income children and families.
FAQ
The Head Start Program is a federal program that promotes school readiness for children under five from low-income families by enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development. The program provides educational, health, nutritional, and family support services to children and their families, preparing them for success in school and beyond.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
Eligibility for the Head Start Program in Florida is primarily based on family income and the age of the child. Families must meet the federal poverty guidelines, and children must be between the ages of three and five years old. Additionally, the program prioritizes children with disabilities and those who are homeless.
To determine if you qualify for the Head Start Program, consider the following checklist:
- Family income must meet federal poverty guidelines.
- Child must be between the ages of 3 and 5 years.
- Priority given to children with disabilities.
- Priority given to families experiencing homelessness.
Make sure to review these points to see if your family qualifies for assistance through the program.
Reference: https://www.headstartflorida.org
