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
- 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 services like early learning, health, and family well-being. These services include individualized learning experiences, health and development screenings, nutritious meals, and family support programs.
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through services like early learning, health, and family well-being. These services include individualized learning experiences, health and development screenings, nutritious meals, and family support programs.
Eligibility Requirements
Designed for low-income families with children from birth to age five.
Images & PDFs
Nebraska Transition to Kindergarten Toolkit and Resource Guide
A resource guide designed to assist families, educators, and early childhood care providers in preparing children for kindergarten, using supportive and inclusive language.
View Full ImageSurvey of Early Head Start Programs
A visual diagram illustrating the foundational strategies and goals of Early Head Start programs, emphasizing child development and family engagement.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Breaking the Cycle: Head Start and Community Empowerment
1/10/2023 | Coverage: local
Focusing on local initiatives, this report examines how Head Start programs empower communities by improving family financial stability and reducing social stigma around aid.
Source: Community Action Partnership of Nebraska
Coverage Area: local
Economic Analysis of Head Start Programs: A National Perspective
11/2/2021 | Coverage: national
This national report discusses the economic benefits of Head Start programs, detailing how they mitigate the financial struggles faced by families due to rising living costs.
Source: National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER)
Coverage Area: national
Head Start in Nebraska: Supporting Children and Families
5/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report outlines the extensive benefits of the Head Start program in Nebraska, emphasizing its role in supporting low-income families and enhancing educational outcomes for children.
Source: Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
Head Start Program Performance Standards Revision
11/19/2015New performance standards were established to improve the quality of services, focusing on the whole child and comprehensive services.
Head Start Reauthorization
12/12/2007The reauthorization provided continued support for Head Start, including increased funding and a focus on outcomes.
Improving Head Start Act
11/28/1994This act mandated performance standards for programs and aimed to increase program quality, impacting early education nationwide.
Expansion of Head Start Programs
12/1/1974The Head Start program expanded its services and eligibility, allowing more children in Nebraska to benefit from educational opportunities.
Establishment of Head Start
1/1/1965The Head Start Program was established as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's War on Poverty, aiming to provide comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children.
FAQ
The Head Start Program in Nebraska is a federally funded program that provides comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families. It aims to enhance children's cognitive, social, and emotional development to prepare them for success in school.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
The Head Start Program offers a variety of services designed to meet the needs of children and families, including early childhood education, health screenings, nutritious meals, family engagement activities, and support for transitioning to kindergarten.
Reference: https://www.nhsa.org
Eligibility for the Head Start Program is primarily based on family income, with families whose income is at or below the federal poverty line given priority. Other factors may include homelessness, foster care status, or having a child with a disability. Families are encouraged to apply regardless of their circumstances to determine eligibility.
To apply for the Head Start Program in Nebraska, consider the following checklist:
- Ensure your family's income meets the eligibility requirements.
- Gather necessary documentation (e.g., income verification, proof of residency).
- Complete the Head Start application form.
- Submit your application to your local Head Start center.
Following this checklist can help streamline your application process.
If you're interested in enrolling your child in the Head Start Program, take these action items:
- Visit the Nebraska Head Start Association website for more information.
- Contact your local Head Start center to ask about enrollment dates.
- Prepare to attend an orientation session if accepted.
Completing these action items will help you stay informed and ready for the enrollment process.
Reference: https://nebraskaheadstart.org
Eligibility and availability may vary by program and location.
