Early Head Start

About This Program

Early Head Start serves low-income pregnant women and families with infants and toddlers from birth through age 3, providing comprehensive early development services designed to support healthy child development during the most critical period for brain growth. The program uses three delivery models: center-based (children attend a facility several days per week), home-based (a family advocate visits the home weekly), and a combination approach. Home-based Early Head Start is particularly valuable for families in rural areas or those with irregular schedules. Weekly home visits focus on supporting parent-child interaction, child development milestones, family goal setting, and connections to community resources. The family visitor relationship can span three years — creating continuity that allows deep support for family stability and child development. Health and nutrition are central to Early Head Start. Pregnant women enrolled receive prenatal care coordination, nutrition counseling, and preparation for childbirth and parenting. After birth, children receive health screenings, developmental screenings, vision and hearing assessments, and referrals to specialists when delays are identified. Early identification of developmental delays — when intervention is most effective — is one of the most important outcomes of Early Head Start participation. Priority enrollment is for families at or below 100% of the federal poverty level, though programs may enroll up to 10% of children from families above that threshold. Waiting lists are common. To find Early Head Start programs, use the Head Start program locator at eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator.

Eligibility Requirements

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