HEAD START PROGRAM

For more information about Head Start/Early Head Start go to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc

WHAT IS HEAD START/EARLY HEAD START?
Head Start and Early Head Start are early childhood programs for pregnant women and for children from birth to age 5. The Head Start program is for children between 3 and 5 years of age from families with limited income. Early Head Start is for low income pregnant women, infants and toddlers. The Federal Poverty Guidelines are used to evaluate family income.

Connecticut programs are administered and operated by community action agencies, local education agencies, and other nonprofit agencies.

MAJOR COMPONENTS OF HEAD START/EARLY HEAD START

• EDUCATION
  Every child receives a variety of learning experiences to help them grow mentally, socially, emotionally, and physically.
• HEALTH
  Comprehensive health programs includes immunizations, medical, dental, mental health and nutritional services.
• PARENT INVOLVEMENT
  Essential part of Head Start is the involvement of parents in parent education, program planning, and operating activities.
• SOCIAL SERVICES
  Services include community outreach; referrals; family needs assessments; emergency assistance and/or crisis intervention.

TO FIND A PROVIDER IN CONNECTICUT:

Dial 2-1-1 Child Care or search the 2-1-1 Child Care website

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SOURCE: Connecticut Department of Education
PREPARED BY: 211/lb
CONTENT LAST REVIEWED: March2013