The Head Start program promotes school readiness by enhancing the social and cognitive development of children ages 3 to 5 through the provision of educational, health, nutritional, social and other services to enrolled children and families. These early education programs engage parents in their child’s learning and assist the parents in attaining their educational, literacy and employment goals.

Eligibility

Head Start and Early Head Start are family and child development programs for low-income families. Family income is one key factor in determining eligibility. The federal poverty guidelines are used to evaluate family income. Families may be eligible for Head Start and Early Head Start if some of the following criteria are met:

• Early Head Start: Pregnant women and/or children under the age of 3
• Head Start: Children 3 to 5
• Household income level is within Federal poverty guidelines
• Child has a disability
• Child is a foster child
• Family is receiving public assistance such as SSI or TANF benefits