EDUCATION

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

Promoting school readiness of children birth to age five

All Head Start classrooms are licensed by the Iowa Department of Human Services and both Head Start and Early Head Start Programs follow rigorous performance standards. Children who attend Head Start enter kindergarten ready to learn. Parents have opportunities to build their community involvement with volunteering and Policy Council membership. Income guidelines do apply.

EARLY HEAD START

Early Head Start is a home visitation program that provides services to eligible pregnant women and children ages birth to 3 years old. The program conducts home visits in the family’s home and provides opportunities for group socialization. The primary focus is to help the parent(s) be their child’s first and most important teacher and assist to improve their parenting skills. Early Head Start Home Visitors will also provide guidance for children’s transition to Head Start or other preschool programs once they turn three years old.

Early Head Start services are provided in Allamakee, Clayton, Fayette, Howard and Winneshiek counties.

Download an Early Head Start brochure below.

ENGLISH

SPANISH

Home Visitors work with families and children on developmental and health areas such as large & fine motor, language, cognitive, nutrition, health and dental. Staff ensure that children are up to date on their well-baby checks and encourage the children to have dental exams after one year of age

Playgroup experiences are held twice per month at various locations. Families are invited to attend each socialization, share a meal and participate together in activities

Home Visitors can help transport children/families to medical, dental appointments if needed

GET STARTED BY FILLING OUT AN APPLICATION TODAY

HEAD START

The Head Start program is a full day, full week preschool experience for low-income and disabled children 3-5 years old. The Head Start approach addresses not only the educational needs of children, but also the health, nutrition, social, mental health and literacy needs as well. Children participate in activities that promote motor, language, social/emotional, cognitive skills, literacy, science and math. All classrooms provide an inclusive environment for children with disabilities. Nutritious breakfast, lunch and snack are provided daily through the CACFP program and Head Start partners with Northeast Iowa Food & Fitness to help children and families learn about healthy, local foods.

Download a Head Start brochure below.

ENGLISH

SPANISH

15 classrooms located in the seven-county service area, including the communities of Cresco, Decorah, Guttenberg, Monona, New Hampton, Oelwein, Postville, Waukon, Waverly, and West Union

Before and after school care for parents who qualify

Program ensures children receive health, vision and dental screenings

PBIS (Positive Intervention Behavior & Supports) is used to ensure children are cared for in a safe, positive and nurturing environment

Transportation is available at some locations through local school districts or local public transit providers

GET STARTED BY FILLING OUT AN APPLICATION TODAY

Parents & Healthcare Providers- Download required forms here.

WELL-CHILD CHECK

DENTAL EXAM

IMMUNIZATION FORM

Click here for more information regarding Head Start

EARLY CHILDHOOD LEARNING & KNOWLEDGE CENTER

HEAD START PUBLIC REPORT 2023