Glossary
Head Start
Head Start is a free federal program that provides early education, health care, nutrition and family support services to low-income children ages 3 to 5.
Head Start helps prepare young children for kindergarten and supports their families. The program includes:
- Early education and learning activities
- Health screenings and dental care
- Nutrition and meals
- Family support services and parent involvement
Head Start is free to families who qualify based on income. Most families with income at or below [VERIFY: federal poverty guidelines percentage] qualify. You can apply at your local Head Start program.
Early Head Start serves babies and toddlers from birth to age 3 and pregnant women, with similar benefits.
Head Start matters when you apply for other benefits because it shows you are working with a government program to support your child's development.
Programs where this matters
MedicaidCenters for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesMedicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by each state with federal funding, for children, adults, pregnant people, older adults and people with disabilities.SNAPUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceSNAP gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to help households with low income buy food.WICUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceWIC gives healthy foods, nutrition education and breastfeeding support to pregnant women, new mothers, infants and young children with low income.Child Care AidHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesChild care assistance helps families with low income pay for child care so parents can work, look for work, or go to school or training.TANFHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesTANF gives cash help and support services to families with children who have low income. Each state runs its own program.School MealsUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceFree and reduced-price school meals help children eat well at school, and Summer EBT helps families buy food for children in the summer.