The Head Start Program
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services
- Agency
- Office of Head Start
- Type
- Federal Resource
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services. These include early learning with individualized experiences, health and developmental screenings, and family well-being support. Programs connect families with medical, dental, and mental health services to ensure comprehensive care.
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services. These include early learning with individualized experiences, health and developmental screenings, and family well-being support. Programs connect families with medical, dental, and mental health services to ensure comprehensive care.
Additional Information
Programs support relationships with adults, promote play, and offer planned and spontaneous instruction to foster development.
Images & PDFs
Impact Reports
Head Start Impact Study: First Year Findings
1/1/2010 | Coverage: national
This study examines the impact of the Head Start program on children's cognitive, social, and emotional development, as well as the program's broader effects on families and communities.
Source: Administration for Children and Families
Coverage Area: national
Head Start's Impact on Children's School Readiness
9/1/2020 | Coverage: national
This report examines the long-term effects of Head Start participation on children's educational outcomes, showcasing how early intervention supports both children and their families in overcoming socioeconomic barriers.
Source: Administration for Children and Families
Coverage Area: national
The Benefits of Head Start: An Evaluation of Early Childhood Education Programs
7/1/2016 | Coverage: national
This evaluation analyzes the long-term benefits of Head Start programs, focusing on academic outcomes and economic impacts on low-income families.
Source: RAND Corporation
Coverage Area: national
The Economic Benefits of Head Start
8/15/2016 | Coverage: national
This research highlights the economic returns of the Head Start program, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving employment outcomes and reducing poverty levels in participating families.
Source: RAND Corporation
Coverage Area: national
The Head Start Effect: A Look at Outcomes and Experiences
5/12/2021 | Coverage: national
This report delves into the personal narratives and data reflecting how Head Start affects families, addressing common misconceptions and stigma surrounding assistance programs.
Source: Child Trends
Coverage Area: national
The Role of Head Start in Mitigating Economic Disparities
4/15/2020 | Coverage: national
This brief outlines how Head Start helps families facing economic challenges, emphasizing its role in reducing poverty and enhancing community resilience.
Source: Center for Law and Social Policy
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Preschool for All Initiative
11/19/2013President Obama introduced the Preschool for All Initiative, aiming to expand access to quality preschool, including the Head Start Program.
Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act
10/24/2007This act was signed into law to enhance the quality of Head Start programs, focusing on educational outcomes and better preparing children for kindergarten.
Head Start Reauthorization
9/30/2007The Head Start Program was reauthorized, with increased focus on improving educational quality and accountability measures for programs.
Creation of the Early Head Start Program
12/1/1994The Early Head Start Program was established to serve pregnant women, infants, and toddlers, recognizing the importance of early intervention.
Head Start Reauthorization Act
8/11/1994The reauthorization of Head Start strengthened its focus on child development and required more extensive performance standards.
Program Revisions and Budget Cuts
1/1/1981Due to budget cuts in the early 1980s, the Head Start Program faced significant changes that reduced the number of children served and impacted program quality.
Expansion of Head Start Services
10/17/1975Legislation was passed to expand Head Start services, focusing on children with disabilities and the inclusion of children in foster care.
Head Start Act Amendments
9/29/1972Amendments to the Head Start Act were made to improve program quality and expand access, emphasizing the inclusion of children with disabilities.
Establishment of Head Start
5/18/1965The Head Start Program was launched as part of the War on Poverty, aiming to provide comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children.
Head Start Program Established
1/8/1965The Head Start Program was created to promote school readiness for children from low-income families by providing comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services.
FAQ
To apply for the Head Start Program, interested families should contact their local Head Start agency. Applications can often be completed online or in person, and you will need to provide documentation such as income verification and proof of your child's age.
Parents can apply for the Head Start Program by contacting their local program directly or by visiting the national Head Start website to find nearby locations. The application process usually requires filling out forms and providing documentation related to family income and residency.
Here’s a guide to prepare for the application:
- Verify the eligibility requirements specific to your local area
- Collect documentation of income, such as tax returns or pay stubs
- Obtain proof of residency
- Prepare your child's birth certificate and health records
Having these items ready can streamline the application process and increase your chances of being accepted into the program.
The Head Start Program is a federally funded initiative aimed at promoting school readiness for children from low-income families. It provides comprehensive services, including early education, health and nutrition, and family support, ensuring that children are prepared to succeed in school and life.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
The Head Start Program offers a range of services designed to promote child development. These include early education programs, health screenings, nutritious meals, and family support services, which can help families navigate social services and improve overall family well-being.
To get involved or benefit from the program, consider these action items:
- Visit your local Head Start program's website to learn more about enrollment.
- Gather necessary documentation such as income verification and proof of residency.
- Attend any informational sessions offered by local Head Start programs.
- Reach out to family support specialists for assistance and resources.
Following these steps can help you take full advantage of the Head Start Program's offerings.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
The information provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
Eligibility for the Head Start Program typically includes children from families whose income is at or below the federal poverty level, children in foster care, and children experiencing homelessness. Additional criteria may vary by local program.
To determine eligibility, consider the following checklist:
- Family income below the federal poverty line
- Child's age (must be 3 to 5 years old by the program's start date)
- Residency in the area served by the program
- Additional factors such as disability status or special needs
Make sure to review these items to assess eligibility for the program.
