Head Start and Early Head Start Early Education Programs
The Head Start and Early Head Start programs help children ages 5 and younger and their families by providing early education services and health and family well-being services. Head Start is designed for children ages 3 to 5 years and Early Head Start is available to children ages birth to 3 years and expectant mothers. Services can be provided in a center-based, home-based, family child care or locally-designed setting.
Families must apply and meet additional eligibility requirements along with age. These requirements include meeting the federal low-income guidelines or being enrolled and receiving benefits from assistance programs. These programs include Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) also known as Cash Assistance, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP).
find a program in your area learn moreServices are offered through the Office of Head Start (OHS) as part of the Administration for Children and Families sector of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Program overview