What Head Start Is
Head Start is a federally funded program providing comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and family support services to income-eligible children and families. Head Start serves ages 3–5 (preschool); Early Head Start serves infants, toddlers, and pregnant women. Both programs are completely free — no tuition, copays, or fees. The program is administered by the Office of Head Start at HHS and operated by community organizations nationwide.
Who Qualifies
Primary eligibility: family income at or below 100% FPL (approximately $31,200/year for a family of four in 2026). Also automatically eligible regardless of income: children experiencing homelessness (McKinney-Vento), children in foster care, families receiving TANF. At least 10% of slots in every program are reserved for children with disabilities. Programs can serve up to 10% of children from families above 100% FPL with additional needs.
What It Provides
Head Start provides: early childhood education (typically 3–4 days/week); health screenings (vision, hearing, developmental, dental); immunization assistance; dental care at many sites; nutritious meals; mental health support; family services; and transition support for kindergarten entry. The whole-child, whole-family approach distinguishes Head Start from standard preschool or daycare.
Early Head Start — Birth to 3
Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children birth through age 2 using center-based or home-based delivery models. Home-based weekly visits reach families in rural areas and those who prefer home learning. Early childhood intervention in the birth-to-three window has among the highest research-supported returns of any educational investment.
How to Apply
Find programs using the Head Start Program Locator at eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator, calling 211, or searching "[your city] Head Start program." Apply directly to each local program — there is no central national application. Bring: income documentation, child's birth certificate and immunization records, and proof of any special circumstances (homelessness, foster care). Ask about current openings and waitlist procedures when you call.
Head Start + CCAP Together
Head Start typically operates part-day or part-week. CCAP childcare subsidies can pay for wrap-around care during remaining hours — before and after the Head Start program day. Inform both the Head Start program and your CCAP caseworker that you want this combination. Many programs are set up specifically to facilitate this arrangement for working parents.