Head Start is a federal program aimed at increasing school readiness for children from lower-income families and backgrounds. From birth to five years of age, children who meet the head start requirements of eligibility can take these courses that focus on enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development to better prepare them to enter schooling in a full-time capacity and average school setting. Overall learning, nutrition, and family and social well-being skills will be taught to help foster a spirit of learning and discovery within children who, on their own, may not have been formed.
A big part of head start is engaging the parents or guardians of each child to promote support and education from the parents to the child directly. This includes promoting healthy prenatal outcomes for pregnant women, aiding in the development and progression of young children, promoting healthy family structures and relationships, and fostering and emphasizing the importance of education within each unique family dynamic.