What is Head Start?

 Head Start is a Federal program for preschool children from low-income families. The Head Start program is operated by local non-profit organizations in almost every county in the country. Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities. They also receive free medical and dental care, have healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy playing indoors and outdoors in a safe setting.  Head Start helps all children succeed. Services are offered to meet the special needs of children with disabilities. Most children in Head Start are between the ages of three and five years old. Services are also available to infants and toddlers in selected sites.  Why Head Start? The Head Start program is a key resource in preparing low-income children for academic success. Founded in 1965 under the presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson, the program prepares children from disadvantaged families for kindergarten. It enables children up to age five to receive child development services, which include education, health and nutritional care.  Head Start provides children with activities that help them grow mentally, socially, emotionally and physically. The Head Start staff recognize that parents are the first and most important teachers of your children. They will welcome your involvement in Head Start activities, and will work as partners with you to help your child progress. Head Start staff members offer your child love, acceptance, understanding, and the opportunity to learn and to experience success. Head Start children socialize with others, solve problems, and have other experiences which can help them become self-confident. The children also improve their listening and speaking skills.  How Head Start Benefits Children The children spend time in stimulating settings where they from good habits and enjoy playing with toys and working on tasks with classmates. Your child will leave Head Start more prepared for kindergarten, excited about learning, and ready to succeed. Your Head Start child will also be examined by skilled professionals for any health problems. Professionals will arrange vision and hearing test. Nutrition activities and dental exams are also offered as well. A mental health professional is available for children and families with special needs.