Early Childhood Development and Education
Head Start is intended to meet the individual needs of each child. Every child receives a variety of learning experiences that enhance his/her cognitive, social, emotional & physical growth. Classroom and home-based visit materials, activities and practices fulfill this design by:
  • Using a curriculum that offers various experiences and is grounded in best early childhood practices and cultural variety.
  • Using a variety of teaching techniques that allow for flexibility in the program day and maximize children's teachable moments.
  • Including both indoor and outdoor play.
  • Including planned activities for all developmental areas and curriculum domains.
  • Encouraging children to express their feelings and negotiate conflict.
  • Including parents in curriculum planning.
  • Including staffing to provide low child to staff ratios.
  • Implementing a curriculum and transition activities that ensure maximum developmental continuity for the children.
Enhancing the classroom experience are home visits from teaching staff to every child's family, a unique feature of Head Start. Head Start addresses the child within the context of the family and partners with the parent, the child's first teacher, in providing the child's education.

Professional development is part of every Head Start program, with staff members receiving training and course work in child development, as well as other areas related to ensuring children receive the best early.