HEAD START & EARLY HEAD START
Early childhood education programs for kids birth to 3
Give your child a love of learning.
Prepare them for a lifetime of success!
Head Start and Early Head Start are high quality early childhood education programs for children birth to 5 years old, offered at no cost to qualifying families. We embrace diversity, welcome children and families of all backgrounds and abilities - including those with special needs, and our nurturing, caring staff are fluent in English, Spanish, and Creole.
If you're ready to give your child a head start, click the button below to apply online.
Need help? Please call us at 302-934-1642
EARLY HEAD START PROGRAM
Using an early-age curriculum to stimulate cognitive and motor skill development our caring, specially trained teachers will nurture your child's curiosity, foster strong, positive family relationships, and ensure your child is supported in reaching important developmental milestones.
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For children birth to 3 years old
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Home-based and center-based programs
HEAD START PROGRAM
We welcome your child into pre-school classrooms where hands-on, play-based, enriching learning experiences; nurturing, enthusiastic teachers; and fun, creative environments give them everything they need to develop the cognitive, social, and emotional skills that form the foundation for future academic success.
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For children 3 to 5 years old
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Center-based pre-school program
+ SUPPORTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
HEALTH & WELLNESS
We connect children and families to and array of services to meet their health and well-being needs including, medical and dental care, vaccinations, nutritious meals, screenings, and mental health.
FAMILY SUCCESS
We connect families to a wide range of resources and supports to help meet their needs including, housing assistance, employment, continuing education, financial coaching, parenting skills.
ELIGIBILITY
Our programs are FREE for qualifying families. Enrollment criteria is defined by
Age:
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Children ages birth to 3 years old: Early Head Start
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Children ages 3 to 5 years old: Head Start
Income:
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Families who meet the established income guidelines
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Families who receive TANF and/or SSI benefits
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Families with incomes at or below the federal poverty level
Other:
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Families who participate in the foster care system
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Families who are homeless
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Families who have children with disabilities and/or special needs
LOCATIONS
Our programs are open to children and families throughout all of Kent and Sussex counties.
We offer 9 conveniently located centers in Dover, Harrington, Smyrna, Milford, Georgetown, Bridgeville, and Laurel.
Use the interactive map to find the center location nearest to you.