• Head Start serves children age three to five years old and their families.
• Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children up to three years old and their families.

Both programs offer home-based and center-based models.

• Home-based model: This option is available for children three years old and younger as well as pregnant women. A staff member visits your home once per week for approximately 1-1/2 hours. Home visits generally cover topics such as child development, parenting techniques and nutrition. Visits are individually designed for each family depending on the child(ren)'s ages and the unique needs of the family.

  The home-based program also includes a socialization two or more times per month where home-based families meet together at a central location. This is an opportunity for your child(ren) to interact with others and to learn social skills. It is also a great time for parents to network and develop friendships.

• Center-based program model: Hours of operation for center-based programs vary by location and are either four or five days per week, four hours per day. Children who attend a center are offered age-appropriate activities and toys in a combination of group and free time, both indoors and outdoors. They are also encouraged to learn social and self-help skills.