Head Start and Early Head Start

Head Start and Early Head Start programs are free, federally funded programs designed to promote school readiness for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers from families that meet income eligibility requirements.

• Early Head Start programs support pregnant women and families with children younger than age 3 years. Head Start programs serve children between 3 and 5 years old.
• These programs are run by local nonprofit organizations, community action agencies, and school districts.
• Head Start programs also support children with identified needs (such as physical and developmental delays), children in foster care, and children experiencing homelessness.
• The programs encourage family involvement through regular visits to the child’s home and provide opportunities for families to volunteer in the programs and participate in special activities to support their child’s learning.
• Head Start and Early Head Start programs link children and families to other services in the community, such as free medical and dental care services.

To learn more about the services that Head Start and Early Head Start programs provide to eligible children and families, visit the Office of Head Start website.

To learn more about Head Start and Early Head Start programs near you, select your state or territory and review the “Child Development and Early Learning Resources” page.

Are Head Start and Early Head Start Programs Licensed?

Head Start and Early Head Start programs must follow federal child care requirements. In addition to meeting the federal requirements, these programs may be required to be licensed by your state or territory.

Why Choose a Head Start or Early Head Start Program?

Families choose Head Start and Early Head Start programs for a variety of reasons, including the following:

• If families are eligible, they receive free high-quality, comprehensive early childhood services.
• Families may appreciate the additional federal oversight, such as higher teacher education and training requirements.

How Do I Find and Choose a Head Start Program?

To find a Head Start or Early Head Start program near you, visit the online Head Start program locator. Once you find a local program, you can contact the program to learn more about how to apply for Head Start or Early Head Start services.

Since Head Start programs typically operate in a center-based setting, use "Look, Listen, and Ask: Tips for Choosing a Quality Child Care Center" as a guide to help choose a Head Start program.