The Head Start Program
Head Start programs support children's growth and development in a positive learning environment through services including early learning, health screenings, nutritious meals, and family well-being support
- 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 services including early learning, health screenings, nutritious meals, and family well-being support.
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through services including early learning, health screenings, nutritious meals, and family well-being support.
Additional Information
Programs support and strengthen parent-child relationships and engage families around children’s learning and development.
Images & PDFs
Braiding Federal Funding to Expand Services
A diagram outlining strategies to enhance collaboration and funding for providers, aiming to support and expand services without stigmatizing access.
View Full ImageCHICAGO EARLY LEARNING STANDARDS 2.0
A visual representation focused on the framework of quality child and family outcomes within the Chicago Early Learning Standards, detailing various components like education, health, and community engagement.
View Full ImageClean Jobs Curriculum Framework
A framework illustrating the pathway from pre-assessments to job placement in clean energy, including education on employability and technical skills along with supportive services.
View Full ImageILLINOIS COMPREHENSIVE LITERACY PLAN
A graphic outlining a literacy framework focusing on students, educators, and leaders to deliver high-quality literacy instruction in Illinois.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Breaking Down Barriers: Head Start's Role in Community Resilience
1/12/2023 | Coverage: national
This National Center for Children in Poverty (NCCP) report outlines how Head Start programs not only benefit participants but also strengthen the fabric of local communities by reducing stigma around receiving aid.
Source: National Center for Children in Poverty
Coverage Area: national
Economic Pressures and the Necessity of Head Start Programs
10/20/2022 | Coverage: national
This USDA report discusses the growing economic pressures on low-income families and how programs like Head Start provide essential support to counteract these challenges.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of Head Start on Families and Communities in Illinois
5/15/2021 | Coverage: state
This report examines the comprehensive benefits of the Head Start Program in Illinois, highlighting how it enhances family stability and community well-being.
Source: Illinois Head Start Association
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
Head Start Program Enrollment Increase
11/19/2015A federal initiative was launched to increase enrollment in Head Start programs, focusing on underserved communities.
Head Start Reauthorization
12/12/2007The program was reauthorized with a focus on enhancing quality standards and accountability measures.
Head Start Expansion
10/25/1994Congress passed legislation to expand the Head Start Program, increasing enrollment capacity and funding for services.
Head Start Act Amendments
1/1/1970The Head Start Act was amended to include provisions for program expansion and improvements in education quality.
Head Start Program Established
5/18/1965The Head Start Program was launched to provide early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families.
FAQ
The Head Start Program in Illinois is a comprehensive early childhood education initiative aimed at promoting school readiness for children from low-income families. It provides various services including education, health, nutrition, and family support to ensure children enter school prepared to succeed.
Reference: https://www.illinois.gov/hfs/HeadStart
Before applying for the Head Start Program, it's important to gather relevant information and documentation that may be required during the application process.
Here's a quick checklist of items to prepare:
- Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns)
- Child's birth certificate or legal documents
- Health insurance information
- Any special needs documentation (if applicable)
- Contact information for references
Having these items ready will help streamline your application process.
Reference: https://www.illinois.gov/hfs/HeadStart/Eligibility
Eligibility for the Head Start Program is primarily based on family income, which must be at or below the federal poverty guidelines. Additionally, children with disabilities or special needs are given priority for enrollment. Other factors may include family circumstances and local program criteria.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
