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
- 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 receive individualized learning experiences, health screenings, nutritious meals, and support for perceptual, motor, and physical development. Families receive support in achieving their goals, such as housing stability 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 receive individualized learning experiences, health screenings, nutritious meals, and support for perceptual, motor, and physical development. Families receive support in achieving their goals, such as housing stability and financial security.
Images & PDFs
Family First Virginia: TITLEIV-EPREVENTION SERVICESPLAN
A resource outlining the vision for prevention services, family-based placements, congregate care, evidence-based services, and financial accountability in Virginia. Aimed at reducing foster care needs by supporting family stability and child safety.
View Full ImageMANAGING YOUR TRANSITION TIMELINE (MYTT)
An infographic detailing a timeline and steps for managing transitional assistance programs. It provides a month-by-month guide to transitioning effectively.
View Full ImageMilestones of Child Development
An informative guide by the Virginia Department of Social Services outlining developmental milestones for children, offering insights for caregivers.
View Full ImageThe Head Start Child Development and Early Learning Framework
A framework designed to promote positive outcomes in early childhood programs for children 3-5 years old, focusing on development and learning.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Addressing the Stigma of Welfare: The Role of Community Programs
9/20/2018 | Coverage: national
This report explores how community-based programs, including Head Start, can help reduce the stigma associated with receiving aid.
Source: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Coverage Area: national
Economic Benefits of Early Childhood Education Programs
5/15/2021 | Coverage: state
This report details the economic advantages of investing in early childhood education, specifically Head Start, including its role in reducing poverty and improving economic mobility.
Source: Voices for Virginia's Children
Coverage Area: state
The Impact of Head Start Programs on Low-Income Families
1/1/2010 | Coverage: national
This report examines the effects of the Head Start program on children's cognitive and social development, as well as its benefits to families and communities.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Improving Head Start Act
12/1/2007The Improving Head Start Act aimed to enhance program quality and expand access, ensuring better services for children and families.
Reauthorization and Quality Enhancement
1/1/1994The program was reauthorized with a focus on improving quality standards and accountability, with increased emphasis on school readiness.
Changes in Funding Structure
1/1/1981The Reagan administration proposed budget cuts that significantly reduced federal funding for the program, leading to debates over its future.
Expansion of Head Start
1/1/1972The program was expanded to include more children and provide additional services, including support for children with disabilities.
Establishment of Head Start Program
1/1/1965The Head Start Program was launched as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society initiative to combat poverty, providing comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services.
FAQ
Parents can play an active role in the Head Start Program by participating in parent-teacher conferences, volunteering in classrooms, and attending training sessions. This involvement not only supports their child's development and learning but also enhances the overall impact of the program by ensuring parent participation.
The Head Start Program in Virginia is a federally funded initiative aimed at promoting school readiness for children from low-income families. It provides a comprehensive range of services including early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parental involvement to ensure that children are prepared for school and life.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
The Head Start Program offers a variety of services aimed at the holistic development of children. These services include early childhood education, health screenings, nutritional support, social services, and parental engagement opportunities to foster family well-being.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs/about/head-start
Eligibility for the Head Start Program typically includes children ages 3 to 5 from families with incomes at or below the federal poverty level. Additional criteria may include homelessness or being in foster care. Each local Head Start agency may have its own specific enrollment criteria, so it's important to check with the local program for exact requirements.
To determine if your child is eligible for the Head Start Program, consider the following checklist:
- Child must be between ages 3 and 5.
- Family income must be at or below the federal poverty level.
- Check if your child is homeless or in foster care.
If you meet these criteria, you may want to reach out to your local Head Start program for more information.
To proceed with enrollment in the Head Start Program, you can follow these action items:
- Contact your local Head Start agency to inquire about openings.
- Prepare necessary documentation, such as income verification.
- Complete the application process as instructed by the local agency.
Completing these steps will help ensure a smooth enrollment process for your child.
Reference: https://www.headstartva.org/
Eligibility criteria are subject to change; please verify with local agencies.
