Head Start and Early Head Start

Give your child the skills to succeed in school!

Eligibility

Eligibility is based on income and family size however there are multiple levels of eligibility. TANF, Supplemental Security Income recipients, foster parents, SNAP recipients, and families that are currently homeless automatically qualify.

Head Start and Early Head Start Programs

The Head Start and Early Head Start Programs provide free high-quality, early childhood education for income-qualified families. Early Head Start serves children 6 weeks to 3 years old. Head Start serves preschoolers 3 to 5 years old.

These FREE programs give you the time you need to work or go to school while your child has a chance to learn, socialize, get nutritious meals and snacks, and play in a licensed center with caring, qualified teachers.

Each center helps families find assistance in challenging times with dedicated family advocates.

Home-based Early Head Start Services

Home-based Head Start Service Areas:

• Cumberland County: Brunswick and Harpswell
• Sagadahoc County: Topsham, Bath, West Bath, Phippsburg, Georgetown, Arrowsic, Woolwich, Bowdoin, Bowdoinham, Richmond
• Lincoln County: Alna, Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Bremen, Bristol, Damariscotta, Dresden, Edgecomb, Jefferson, Monhegan, Newcastle, Nobleboro, Somerville, South Bristol, Southport, Waldoboro & Whitefield.

Parent Support

Supporting parents is an important part of these programs. As a parent, you are your child’s first and most important teacher. Head Start emphasizes your role in your child’s life, and our staff work with you and your child offering programs that support family well-being and positive parent-child relationships. Head Start is also the only nationally recognized program of its kind that provides support to children with disabilities and their families.

Parent support topics include:

• Pregnancy
• Baby and child healthcare
• Breastfeeding/formula feeding
• Nutrition
• Immunizations
• Child development
  • Developmental screenings
  • Disability support
  • Learning play groups
• Child safety
  • Effective discipline
  • Household safety
  • Local resources
  • Other organized family events