OTDA Home → Resources for Working Families → Head Start and Early Head Start
Head Start and Early Head Start
The main goal of all Head Start programs is to increase the social competence of children in low-income families and children with disabilities and to significantly improve their changes of success in school.
What services and experiences do Head Start Programs provide?
Education Services
- Individualized learning programs
- Evidence and research based curriculum
- Inclusion of children with special needs
- Literacy activities
Health Services
- Medical, dental, vision, and hearing screening and treatment
- Nutrition services
- Health education
- Mental health screening and referrals
- Assistance in establishing a medical and dental home
Family Services
- Links to community resources
- Family goal setting
- Leadership opportunities through parent council involvement
- Parent education programs
- Advocacy skills
- Support during transitions from Head Start to public school
How is Early Head Start unique?
Early Head Start is a year-round program that provides services for pregnant women and for children from birth through age three, and their families. Early Head Start children and their families receive:
- High-quality early childhood education
- Parent education and involvement
- Health and mental health services, including pre-natal services
- Nutrition education
- Family support services
Income Eligibility
Children are eligible to participate in Head Start programs if they are from low-income families. Income eligibility guidelines are established for participation Head Start programs based on the poverty guidelines updated annually by the US Department of Health and Human Services. At lest 90 percent of the children enrolled in each Head Start program must be from families who meet federally regulated income guidelines. Up to 10 percent of the enrollment opportunities in each program must be made available to children with disabilities. There are no fees for Head Start services.
Determine if you are eligible to participate in a Head Start or Early Head Start program:
2009 Poverty Guidelines for the 48 Contiguous States and the District of Columbia
| Persons in family | Poverty Guideline |
|---|---|
| 1 | $10,830 |
| 2 | $14,570 |
| 3 | $18,310 |
| 4 | $22,050 |
| 5 | $25,790 |
| 6 | $29,530 |
| 7 | $33,270 |
| 8 | $37,010 |
| For families with more than 8 persons, add $3,740 for each additional person. | |
The program you apply to will be required to determine your eligibility by filling out this eligibility form. Notice on the form how your eligibility is determined. Be sure to bring proof of your eligibility when you apply to the program.
How to Apply
You can obtain information on applying by contacting a program directly. Find a Head Start or Early Head Start program near you.