The Head Start Program
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through services like early learning, health, and family well-being
- Agency
- Office of Head Start, Administration for Children and Families
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through services like early learning, health, and family well-being. Children engage in individualized learning experiences and receive health screenings, nutritious meals, and mental health support. Families are connected with medical, dental, and mental health services while being supported in achieving personal goals for housing, education, and financial security.
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through services like early learning, health, and family well-being. Children engage in individualized learning experiences and receive health screenings, nutritious meals, and mental health support. Families are connected with medical, dental, and mental health services while being supported in achieving personal goals for housing, education, and financial security.
Images & PDFs
Impact Reports
Head Start: A Key to Economic Stability
4/20/2021 | Coverage: state
This report details how Head Start programs contribute to economic stability in communities by supporting working families amidst rising living costs.
Source: National Association for Head Start
Coverage Area: state
Head Start and Early Head Start: A 2019 Report
12/1/2019 | Coverage: national
This report provides an overview of the impacts of Head Start and Early Head Start programs on children's development and family outcomes, demonstrating significant benefits for low-income families.
Source: Administration for Children and Families
Coverage Area: national
Rising Costs and Head Start’s Role in Community Support
11/10/2022 | Coverage: state
The report discusses the correlation between rising living costs and the increased necessity for support programs like Head Start, emphasizing its role in community welfare.
Source: National Academy of Sciences
Coverage Area: state
The Impact of Head Start on Educational Outcomes
6/15/2020 | Coverage: national
This study examines the long-term educational impacts of Head Start programs, providing evidence of their role in closing the achievement gap for low-income children.
Source: Mathematica Policy Research
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Head Start for School Readiness Act
12/10/2015This act was signed into law to improve program quality and to ensure that children are ready for school.
Head Start Reauthorization
8/1/2007The Head Start program was reauthorized to focus on school readiness and family engagement, enhancing support for children's early education.
Improving Head Start Act
11/28/1994This legislation reauthorized and strengthened the Head Start program, emphasizing the need for quality and accountability.
Expansion of Eligibility
1/1/1972The program was expanded to include children from families receiving welfare assistance and to serve more disabled children.
Launch of Head Start Program
1/1/1965The Head Start Program was established as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society initiative to provide comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children.
FAQ
Applying for the Head Start Program involves several steps designed to assess eligibility and ensure families gain the maximum benefit from the services offered. Initially, you must contact your local Head Start agency to receive detailed application instructions and determine availability.
Follow these steps to apply:
- Contact your local Head Start agency for specific enrollment details.
- Complete the necessary application forms.
- Submit all required documentation, such as proof of income, residency, and child’s age.
- Participate in an interview or home visit, if required.
Adhering to these steps will facilitate a smooth application process.
Reference: https://www.headstartminnesota.org/apply
Please note that application details and required documents may vary by location.
The Head Start Program in Minnesota is a federally funded initiative aimed at promoting school readiness for children from low-income families. It provides a comprehensive set of services, including early childhood education, health, nutrition, and family engagement. The program is designed to enhance children's cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
The Head Start Program provides a wide range of services designed to support children's development and their families. These include early education and curriculum, health screenings, nutritional meals, mental health support, and parental involvement opportunities. Additionally, the program assists families with resources and referrals for housing, employment, and other social services.
To engage with the Head Start Program effectively, consider the following action items:
- Visit the local Head Start center for more information.
- Gather necessary documents for application (income proof, child’s birth certificate, etc.).
- Attend informational sessions or open houses hosted by the program.
- Connect with other families involved in Head Start to share experiences.
Taking these steps will help you navigate the application process smoothly.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs/what-head-start
Eligibility for the Head Start Program primarily depends on family income, age of the child, and residency. Families with incomes at or below the federal poverty line are prioritized. Additionally, children must be three or four years old by September 1st of the program year. Some programs also consider other factors such as foster care status, homelessness, or special needs.
To determine if your child qualifies for the Head Start Program, please consider the following checklist:
- Child is aged 3 or 4 by September 1st.
- Family income is at or below the federal poverty level.
- Child has special needs or is in foster care (if applicable).
- Family resides in Minnesota.
If your situation meets these criteria, you may apply for the program.
Reference: https://www.headstartminnesota.org/
