Head Start and Early Head Start Programs in New York City

Head Start and Early Head Start Programs provide free early childhood education, child care, nutrition assistance, health screenings, and family support services to eligible low-income families in New York City.

These federally funded programs are designed to promote healthy child development, school readiness, and family well-being. In addition to educational services, families may receive support with healthcare, nutrition, parenting resources, and access to community services.

Early Head Start serves pregnant women, infants, and toddlers up to age 3, while Head Start serves children ages 3 to 5.

This guide explains how Head Start and Early Head Start work, who qualifies, how to apply, and where families can find programs in New York City.

What Are Head Start and Early Head Start Programs?

Head Start and Early Head Start are comprehensive early childhood development programs funded by the federal government.

These programs help children build the skills needed for success in school while supporting families with a wide range of services.

Services may include:

  • Early childhood education
  • Child care services
  • Nutrition assistance
  • Health and developmental screenings
  • Family support and case management
  • Parenting education
  • Referrals to healthcare and community services

Programs focus on children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.

What’s the Difference Between Head Start and Early Head Start?

a. Early Head Start

Early Head Start serves:

  • Pregnant women
  • Infants
  • Toddlers up to age 3

Services focus on:

  • Healthy pregnancies
  • Infant and toddler development
  • Parent-child relationships
  • Early learning opportunities

b. Head Start

Head Start serves:

  • Children ages 3 to 5

Services focus on:

  • School readiness
  • Early learning and literacy
  • Social and emotional development
  • Health and nutrition support

Both programs provide family-centered services designed to strengthen household stability and child development.

Who Qualifies for Head Start and Early Head Start?

Eligibility is primarily based on income and family circumstances.

1. Residency Requirement

Families must generally live in New York City.

2. Age Requirements

a. Early Head Start

  • Pregnant women
  • Children from birth through age 2

b. Head Start

  • Children ages 3 through 5

3. Income Requirements

Most families qualify based on federal income guidelines.

Priority may be given to:

  • Families with low income
  • Children experiencing homelessness
  • Children in foster care
  • Families receiving public assistance

Some programs may have additional eligibility criteria.

What Services Are Included?

Head Start and Early Head Start provide comprehensive support for children and families.

1. Early Childhood Education

Children participate in age-appropriate learning activities designed to build:

  • Language skills
  • Literacy foundations
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Social development

2. Health and Developmental Screenings

Programs may provide:

  • Vision screenings
  • Hearing screenings
  • Developmental assessments
  • Health referrals

3. Nutrition Services

Families may receive:

  • Healthy meals and snacks
  • Nutrition education
  • Referrals to food assistance programs

4. Family Support Services

Programs often help families access:

  • Housing resources
  • Employment services
  • Parenting education
  • Healthcare providers
  • Community support programs

How Head Start and Early Head Start Work

Once enrolled, children attend program activities either full-day, part-day, or through home-based services depending on program availability.

Families typically receive:

  1. Enrollment assessment
  2. Developmental screenings
  3. Individualized learning support
  4. Family service planning
  5. Ongoing educational and family support services

Programs work closely with parents to support children’s development both at school and at home.

How to Apply for Head Start and Early Head Start

Step 1: Find a Program

Locate a Head Start or Early Head Start provider serving your neighborhood.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Families may need:

  • Proof of child’s age
  • Birth certificate
  • Proof of New York City residency
  • Proof of household income
  • Immunization records
  • Pregnancy verification (for Early Head Start applicants)

Step 3: Submit an Application

Apply directly with participating Head Start or Early Head Start providers.

Step 4: Complete Eligibility Review

Program staff verify eligibility and available openings.

Step 5: Enrollment

Eligible children are enrolled when space becomes available.

Find and Apply for Head Start and Early Head Start Programs

Families can learn more and locate programs through official resources:

Official New York City Resources

Important Things to Know About Head Start Programs

  • Programs are free for eligible families
  • Enrollment is based on eligibility and available space
  • Services may be center-based, home-based, or a combination of both
  • Children receive educational, health, and family support services
  • Some locations offer full-day programming
  • Families are encouraged to participate in program activities and planning

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Head Start free?

Yes. Head Start and Early Head Start are free for eligible families.

2. Can pregnant women enroll?

Yes. Early Head Start provides services for eligible pregnant women.

3. Does Head Start provide child care?

Many programs offer child care and extended-day options, depending on the provider.

4. What if my family income is slightly above the limit?

Some programs may accept a limited number of families who exceed income guidelines, depending on available funding and enrollment rules.

5. How do I find a Head Start program near me?

Families can use the NYC ACS directory or the federal Head Start locator to find participating programs.

Disclaimer

Program eligibility requirements, enrollment procedures, service availability, and income guidelines may change over time. Readers should verify the latest information directly through official New York City agencies, Head Start providers, and federal program administrators.