Head Start facts for kids

Head Start is a special program in the United States that helps young children and their families. It's run by the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The main goal is to give kids a strong start in life, especially those from families with lower incomes.

The program offers many important services. These include early childhood education, health check-ups, good nutrition, and ways for parents to get involved. Head Start wants to help families build strong relationships, keep children healthy, and support their learning and thinking skills.

What is Head Start?

Head Start is a federal program, which means it's supported by the U.S. government. It provides comprehensive services to children from birth to age five. These services are designed to help children grow in many ways. This includes their social, emotional, thinking, and physical development. The program also supports parents and families.

Who Does Head Start Help?

Head Start focuses on helping children from families with low incomes. This ensures that all children, no matter their family's financial situation, have a chance to succeed. The program also helps children with disabilities. About 10% of the spots in Head Start are set aside for children with special needs.

Age Groups Served

• Head Start: This part of the program is for children aged three to five years old. It often takes place in classrooms, similar to a preschool.
• Early Head Start: This part helps even younger children. It serves babies, toddlers, and pregnant women. Early Head Start focuses on very early development and supporting new parents.

Why Was Head Start Created?

Head Start began in 1965. It was part of a bigger effort in the U.S. called the "War on Poverty." Leaders at the time realized that many children from low-income families faced challenges even before starting school. They wanted to create a program that could help these children catch up and be ready to learn.

Goals of the Program

The main goals of Head Start are to:

• Boost School Readiness: Help children develop the skills they need for kindergarten. This includes learning letters, numbers, and how to get along with others.
• Support Child Development: Encourage growth in all areas. This means helping kids learn to talk, play, think, and solve problems.
• Promote Family Well-being: Offer resources and support to parents. This helps families create a stable and nurturing home environment.

What Services Does Head Start Offer?

Head Start provides a wide range of services. These services work together to support the whole child and their family.

Education and Learning

Children in Head Start attend classes that are fun and engaging. Teachers use activities that help kids learn through play. They focus on:

• Language Skills: Helping children learn new words and express themselves.
• Early Math and Reading: Introducing basic numbers, shapes, and letters.
• Social-Emotional Skills: Teaching kids how to share, take turns, and manage their feelings.
• Curiosity and Exploration: Encouraging children to ask questions and discover new things.

Learning Environments

Head Start programs can be found in different settings. Some are in centers, like a typical preschool. Others might be home-based, where a teacher visits the family's home. This flexibility helps meet the needs of different families.

Health and Nutrition

Keeping children healthy is a big part of Head Start. The program helps families get access to important health services.

• Health Screenings: Children receive check-ups for their vision, hearing, and overall health.
• Dental Care: Programs help connect families with dental services to keep teeth healthy.
• Immunizations: Ensuring children get all their necessary shots to prevent illnesses.
• Healthy Meals: Children receive nutritious meals and snacks during the program day. This helps them get the energy they need to learn and play.

Parent and Family Involvement

Head Start believes that parents are a child's first and most important teachers. The program works closely with families.

• Parent Education: Offering workshops and resources on child development and parenting skills.
• Family Support: Helping families connect with community resources for housing, jobs, or other needs.
• Volunteering: Encouraging parents to get involved in the program. They can volunteer in classrooms or join parent committees. This gives parents a voice in how the program is run.

How Head Start Makes a Difference

Head Start has helped millions of children and families over the years. Studies show that children who attend Head Start often have better school readiness skills. They may also do better in school later on. The program also helps families become stronger and more connected to their communities.