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
- Office of Head Start
- 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, including early learning, health, and family well-being. They offer individualized learning experiences to foster children's readiness for school, provide comprehensive health services, and engage families in their children's learning and 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. They offer individualized learning experiences to foster children’s readiness for school, provide comprehensive health services, and engage families in their children’s learning and development.
Images & PDFs
Father Engagement Birth to Five
A visual resource highlighting the importance of positive father engagement in child development from birth to five years. It focuses on goal-oriented relationships contributing to program outcomes.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Rising Costs and Stagnant Wages: The Need for Programs Like Head Start
8/3/2021 | Coverage: national
This analysis discusses the increasing economic pressures faced by low-income families and the crucial role of Head Start in providing necessary support during these challenging times.
Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of Head Start on Family Economic Security
1/15/2020 | Coverage: national
This report analyzes how the Head Start program provides essential resources that contribute to the economic security of participating families, leading to improved financial stability.
Source: Administration for Children and Families
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Expansion of Early Head Start
11/19/2015Funding was expanded to provide services for infants and toddlers through the Early Head Start program.
Head Start Program Reauthorization
12/12/2007This reauthorization emphasized accountability and performance standards for Head Start programs across the nation.
Head Start Amendments
10/1/1972The amendments aimed to expand services and ensure the inclusion of children with disabilities in the Head Start Program.
Launch of Head Start Program
1/1/1965The Head Start Program was established to provide comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families.
FAQ
The Head Start Program is a federal initiative designed to promote school readiness for children from low-income families. It provides comprehensive education, health, nutrition, and social services to children aged three to five, focusing on enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs/about/head-start
Eligibility for the Head Start Program in Georgia typically includes children from families whose income is at or below the federal poverty level. Additionally, children with disabilities, children in foster care, or those experiencing homelessness may also qualify regardless of income.
To determine if you are eligible for the Head Start Program, consider the following checklist:
- Family income at or below federal poverty level
- Child must be between 3 and 5 years old
- Residency in Georgia
- Children with disabilities or in foster care may qualify regardless of income
Reviewing these items can help determine your child's eligibility for the program.
To apply for the Head Start Program, take the following actions:
- Gather necessary documents, such as income verification and your child's birth certificate
- Contact your local Head Start agency to express your interest
- Complete and submit the application form provided by the agency
- Follow up to ensure your application has been received and inquire about the next steps
Taking these steps will help facilitate your application process for the Head Start Program.
Reference: https://www.georgiaheadstart.org/
Eligibility criteria may vary slightly by local Head Start agencies, so it's recommended to check with the specific agency for detailed information.
