Many parents wonder what Head Start is and how it can benefit their child’s early development. Head Start is a federally funded program designed to foster the healthy development of young children from low-income families. Established in the 1960s under the Economic Opportunity Act, Head Start emerged as a cornerstone initiative to break the cycle of poverty. Its comprehensive approach addresses not only the educational needs of preschool-aged children but also their emotional, social, health, nutritional, and psychological well-being.

The program recognizes that a child’s development is intrinsically linked to their family environment. Therefore, Head Start actively promotes family engagement, offering resources and support to empower parents and caregivers. By involving families in their child’s early learning journey, the program strengthens the foundation for lifelong success and builds stronger communities.

Through its holistic model, Head Start has remained a trusted resource for early childhood education and family support for decades.

The Benefits of Head Start

Head Start offers transformative benefits for children and families, fostering lifelong success through its comprehensive services.

Social and Emotional Development

The program emphasizes social and emotional skills, helping children build self-control, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively. Research has shown that Head Start participants often carry these skills into adulthood, with improvements in self-esteem, self-control, and positive parenting practices. These qualities contribute to healthier relationships and stronger communities.

Health Screenings and Services

Head Start prioritizes early health interventions, offering vision, hearing, and developmental screenings, along with access to medical and dental care. By addressing health concerns early, the program sets children on a path to better long-term health outcomes, a benefit highlighted in studies showing Head Start’s significant impact on participants’ well-being into adulthood.

Family Support Services

Understanding that strong families create a strong foundation for children, Head Start provides family-centered resources like parenting workshops, job training, and connections to community services. Research has also revealed that Head Start’s benefits extend across generations: children of Head Start participants are less likely to engage in risky behaviors like teen parenthood or criminal activity and are more likely to graduate high school and attend college.

Nutrition and Meal Programs

Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of Head Start, with meals and snacks designed to meet children’s dietary needs. Families also receive guidance on healthy eating habits, empowering them to continue these practices at home. Good nutrition ensures children are ready to learn and grow, fostering their physical and cognitive development.

Inclusive Services for Special Needs Children

Head Start is dedicated to inclusivity, providing individualized support for children with special needs. By creating an environment where every child can thrive, the program ensures equal opportunities for learning and development.

Evidence of Head Start’s Enduring Impact

Decades of research confirm the life-changing outcomes of Head Start:

  • A Brookings Institution study found that Head Start not only boosts high school graduation rates but also improves participants’ health outcomes later in life.
  • The study additionally shows that the program has a significant impact on African American participants, promoting emotional development and fostering positive behaviors like self-control and healthy parenting.
  • Multigenerational research conducted by the University of Notre Dame revealed that children of Head Start participants experience an 11% increase in high school graduation rates and an 18% boost in college enrollment. These gains translate into estimated wage increases of 6% to 11% by age 50, highlighting the program’s ripple effect across generations.

Age for Head Start

Head Start programs serve children from birth to five years old, offering tailored educational and developmental resources based on age.

  • Early Head Start: Focuses on infants, toddlers, and pregnant women, providing support during the critical early years of development.
  • Head Start: Designed for preschool-aged children, typically from three to five years old, preparing them for kindergarten.

Some programs may have specific age requirements, depending on local needs and resources, but all share the goal of fostering growth during the early stages of life.

How Much Does Head Start Cost?

Head Start is completely free for eligible families, ensuring that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of early childhood education and development.

The program is funded by the federal government, with grants allocated to local organizations to cover costs. This funding ensures that children and families can access the resources they need without added financial stress.

Head Start Programs in Ventura County, California

At CDR we offer a variety of Head Start programs in Ventura County designed to meet the unique needs of children and their families. These programs are available in both center-based and home-based formats, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for families in the community.

  • Center-Based Programs: These options provide a structured learning environment where children aged 3 to 5 engage in activities that promote school readiness. Qualified educators lead classrooms with a focus on early literacy, numeracy, social-emotional development, and creativity. These centers also provide nutritious meals, health screenings, and access to additional resources for families, creating a comprehensive support system.
  • Home-Based Programs: For families who prefer a more personalized approach, the home-based program brings early childhood education into the home. A trained home visitor works closely with parents to support their child’s development through individualized lesson plans, parenting guidance, and interactive activities. This option empowers parents as their child’s first and most important teacher while providing the same high-quality services as the center-based program.

Both options aim to break down barriers to education and provide equitable opportunities for low-income families. These programs serve children aged 3 to 5, offering them the tools they need to succeed in kindergarten and beyond.

CDR is always accepting applications for our Head Start programs, ensuring that families in Ventura County have ongoing access to these vital services. Whether you choose the center-based or home-based program, we are committed to supporting your child’s growth and preparing them for a bright future.

Comprehensive Support Services: Beyond Education

Our Head Start programs go beyond traditional early childhood education, offering a comprehensive network of support services designed to address the diverse needs of children and their families. This includes specialized programs for children with disabilities and special needs, ensuring that every child has access to resources that foster growth, learning, and success.

Head Start’s holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of a child’s development and family well-being. Below are key areas where the program provides critical support:

Health and Nutrition

Head Start ensures that children receive essential health services, including medical and dental screenings, immunizations, and regular check-ups. The program also emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition by providing balanced meals and educating families on healthy eating habits. These services are particularly beneficial for children with specific health or dietary needs, helping them stay healthy and ready to learn.

Education

High-quality early education is at the core of Head Start. Our programs are tailored to promote cognitive, social, and emotional development, preparing children for school success. Educators use evidence-based teaching practices to create an engaging, supportive environment where children thrive, regardless of their abilities or learning styles.

Mental Health Services

Recognizing the importance of mental and emotional well-being, Head Start provides access to mental health professionals who support children and families through counseling, workshops, and interventions. These services aim to build resilience and address any challenges that may affect a child’s development or family dynamics.

Family Engagement & Support Services

Head Start fosters strong partnerships with families, offering resources that empower parents as advocates for their children’s education and development. Through workshops, home visits, and access to community resources, families gain the tools they need to create stable, nurturing environments for their children.

Ready to learn more? Visit our Head Start Programs page for additional information and answers to frequently asked questions.

How to Enroll: Navigating Head Start Eligibility and Costs

Our Head Start programs are designed to support qualifying families by providing resources that promote child development and family well-being. To determine eligibility, it’s important to understand what Head Start is and the specific services it offers to meet your family’s needs. Below, we provide a guide to the eligibility requirements and application process to help you get started.

Eligibility Requirements

Families must meet specific criteria to qualify for Head Start in Ventura County:

  • The program serves children between the ages of 3 and 5.
  • Families must meet federal income guidelines.
  • Applicants must reside in Ventura County, California.

For expectant mothers, Early Head Start provides prenatal care and services to support healthy pregnancies and early child development.

Application Documents

To ensure your application is processed quickly, gather the following documents before applying:

  • Your child’s birth certificate to verify age.
  • Proof of your family’s gross annual income, including:
    • Tax forms such as IRS 1040s.
    • W-2s for all employment within the past year.
    • Income documentation for the last 12 months.
    • Current Notice of Action for Cal Works or TANF Cash Aid recipients.
  • Your child’s up-to-date immunization records.
  • If you’re an expectant mother, proof of pregnancy with your expected delivery date.


When you’re ready to apply, visit the Applications page. Our team is here to assist you at every step, ensuring your family gets access to the resources you need.

A Call to Action for Ventura County Families

At CDR our Head Start programs are more than just early education—they’re a pathway to brighter futures for children and families in Ventura County. By addressing the developmental, health, and emotional needs of children while providing vital support services for families, these programs create lasting opportunities for success.

And for Ventura County families exploring what Head Start is, this program represents a powerful opportunity to support your children’s growth and future success. If you’re seeking a comprehensive program like this, Head Start could be the solution you’ve been looking for. Don’t miss the chance to explore its transformative benefits firsthand.

Take the first step today by visiting our Programs page or contacting CDR for more information to learn about the programs, eligibility requirements, and the application process. Together, we can set your family on the path to a brighter future.