Last updated 3 months ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.
Head Start is a federally funded program that provides comprehensive early childhood education and support to low-income families across the United States. Established in 1965, Head Start has served nearly 40 million families by addressing the educational, health, nutritional, and social needs of young children and their families.
Finding a Head Start Program
The easiest way to find a Head Start program is through the official Office of Head Start website at headstart.gov.
The website features a user-friendly “Find Program” tool on the homepage that allows you to search for centers by entering your zip code, city, or state. If you need guidance using this tool, the website offers a video tutorial.
Beyond the program finder, the website provides:
- Background information about Head Start
- Resources on early childhood development
- Program guidelines and regulations
- Latest news and policy updates
- Information on how to apply
- Upcoming events and webinars
- Social media links to connect with Head Start
If you need assistance by phone, call the Head Start Information and Communications Center at 1-866-763-6481.
Types of Head Start Programs
Head Start offers various program models to meet the diverse needs of children and families:
By Age Group
- Head Start Preschool: Serves children ages 3-4 years
- Early Head Start: Serves infants, toddlers, and pregnant women
By Delivery Method
- Center-Based: Services in a classroom setting, often operating at least six hours per day, five days per week
- Home-Based: Services provided in the child’s home, with planned group socialization activities
- Family Child Care: Services in a family child care setting for a more intimate environment
Specialized Programs
- American Indian and Alaska Native Programs: Tailored for children and families from these communities
- Migrant and Seasonal Head Start: Designed for families engaged in migrant and seasonal agricultural work
Program availability varies by location based on community needs.
Eligibility Requirements
Head Start aims to serve families most in need. Here are the key eligibility criteria:
Income Requirements
- Family income at or below the federal poverty level
- Some programs may accept families with income up to 130% of the poverty level
Categorical Eligibility
Families may qualify regardless of income if they:
- Receive public assistance (TANF, SSI, or SNAP benefits)
- Have children in foster care
- Are experiencing homelessness
Age Requirements
- Early Head Start: Children from birth to age 3 and pregnant women
- Head Start Preschool: Children ages 3-4 years
Additional Information
- Head Start welcomes children with disabilities (at least 10% of enrollment)
- Eligibility is open to all families in the US regardless of citizenship or immigration status
To check if your family meets income requirements, refer to the Poverty Guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Services Offered
Head Start provides comprehensive services addressing multiple aspects of child and family development:
Early Learning
- Developmentally appropriate activities promoting literacy, math, science, social-emotional, and physical development
- Research-based curricula tailored to each child’s needs
Health Services
- Regular screenings for physical, mental, and dental health
- Vision and hearing assessments
- Developmental milestone monitoring
- Follow-up services and referrals for necessary care
Nutrition
- Nutritious meals and snacks during program hours
- Nutrition education for children and families
Family Engagement
- Parent education workshops
- Volunteer opportunities
- Participation in program governance through policy councils
Family Support
- Resources for housing, employment, and social services
- Assistance connecting with community resources
Special Support
- Services for children with disabilities
- Mental health screenings and support
- Transition services to kindergarten
This two-generational approach supports both the child’s development and the family’s overall well-being.
State-Specific Resources
While Head Start operates under federal guidelines, many states have their own resources and associations:
- Search online for “[your state] Head Start association” for local information
- State Head Start associations often provide:
- Directories of local programs
- State-specific eligibility information
- Professional development opportunities
- Advocacy resources
- News and policy updates relevant to your state
These state-level organizations help adapt Head Start to meet local needs and regulations.
Application Process
The application process typically involves:
- Locate a program using the Head Start Center Locator
- Contact the program directly to inquire about eligibility and openings
- Complete application forms provided by the program
- Submit required documentation, which may include:
- Proof of income (pay stubs or tax returns)
- Child’s birth certificate
- Proof of address
- Immunization records
- Documentation of public assistance (if applicable)
- Social Security cards (some programs)
- Participate in an interview with program staff (if required)
- Request placement on a waiting list if no immediate openings are available
Application timelines vary between programs, so contact your local program for specific information.
Program Quality Standards
Head Start programs must meet comprehensive regulations known as the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), which cover:
- Program governance and management
- Eligibility, recruitment, and enrollment procedures
- Program structure and operations
- Staff qualifications and training
- Education and child development services
- Health and nutrition services
- Family and community engagement
- Services for children with disabilities
- Transition services
- Human resources management
- Financial and administrative requirements
- Facilities and transportation
These standards are regularly updated to reflect current research and best practices. Programs undergo monitoring to ensure compliance, providing assurance of quality and accountability.
Benefits of Head Start
Research demonstrates significant benefits for children and families who participate in Head Start programs:
Benefits for Children
- Improved school readiness in cognitive, social, and emotional development
- Enhanced language, literacy, and math skills
- Better social skills and emotional regulation
- Fewer behavioral problems
- Improved health outcomes
- Higher rates of high school graduation and college attendance
- Positive long-term impacts into adulthood
Benefits for Families
- Increased parental involvement in education
- Access to critical support services
- Improved parenting skills
- More supportive home environments
- Greater family self-sufficiency
- Stronger parent-child relationships
Early Head Start specifically shows positive impacts on infant and toddler development and parenting behaviors.
Choosing the Right Program
When selecting a Head Start program, consider these tips:
- Visit the program to observe the classroom and meet teachers
- Ask questions about curriculum, teacher qualifications, staff-to-child ratio, safety procedures, and daily routines
- Consider program type and schedule that best fits your family’s needs
- Inquire about specific services relevant to your child’s needs
- Talk to other parents whose children attend the program
- Observe the learning environment to ensure it’s welcoming, stimulating, and safe
- Consider location and accessibility for your family
- Understand the program’s approach to early childhood education and family involvement
Remember that Head Start programs are offered at no cost to eligible families.
What to Expect After Enrollment
After enrolling your child, you can expect:
- Initial assessments of your child’s development and health
- Regular health screenings and healthcare support
- Opportunities for parent involvement through:
- Classroom volunteering
- Parent-teacher conferences
- Parent committees
- Policy Council participation
- Possible home visits from program staff
- Regular communication about your child’s progress and activities
- Support for family goals related to education, employment, or housing
- Assistance with kindergarten transition as your child approaches school age
Head Start creates a partnership between families and program staff to support children’s development and school readiness.
Head Start programs provide valuable comprehensive support for eligible children and families. By offering quality early education, health services, and family engagement opportunities, Head Start helps build a strong foundation for future success. Visit headstart.gov to find programs in your area and take the first step toward unlocking your child’s potential.
Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.
