Skip to content
OwedFinder

Glossary term

Head Start

Definition

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

MedicaidState-run · Centers 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.SNAPState-run · USDA Food and Nutrition ServiceSNAP gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to help households with low income buy food.WICState-run · USDA 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 AidState-run · HHS 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.TANFState-run · HHS 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 MealsState-run · USDA 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.