Head Start

Head Start is a federally funded program for children birth through age 5, as well as expectant families. 

Head Start provides:

  • Free early learning programs at a center or through home visits.
  • Support for child development including social skills and early reading and math skills.
  • Family support to help meet family goals.
  • Help getting medical and dental care.
  • Other services based on the needs of the child and family.

Types of Head Start

  • Head Start: For children age 3 through 5.
  • Early Head Start: For children birth through age 3 or expectant families.
  • Migrant and Seasonal Head Start: For children birth through age 5 or expectant families in communities with migrant and seasonal workers.
  • Tribal Head Start: For American Indian and Alaska Native children from birth to age 5 or expectant families. Programs are located on or near reservations.

Eligibility

Children must be ages 0 through 5, or the family must be expecting a baby, and meet one of the following:

  • The family’s income is at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, with priority to those at or below 100%; or
  • The child or family is eligible for, or receiving, one of the following public assistance programs:
    • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
    • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
    • Basic Food Assistance in Washington State
  • The child is experiencing homelessness
  • The child is in foster care
  • Some children above the income limit may qualify if they have developmental or environmental needs