What is Head Start?
Head Start is a federal and state grant funded program operated by non-profit organizations in almost every county in the country.
Head Start is a comprehensive child development program that serves children, ages 3-5, including children with disabiliites from low income families. However, over-income families may be eligible for the program depending upon other needs within the family.
Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities designed to foster learning, and social/ emotional and physical development. The classrooms are equipped for "hands on" learning and teachers follow an age appropriate curriculum. Nutrition and health are also an important part of the Head Start experience.
Most children who enroll in Head Start attend a center for half day sessions. However, some children may attend Head Start all day.
Other children might be enrolled in a Home Based Program where teachers visit the home and provide guidance to parents in developing age appropriate learning experiences for their children.
What Can Head Start Offer Your Child?
Head Start offers your child an opportunity to develop social, physical, and readiness skills necessary for a successful kindergarten experience. Nutrition, health and safety activities are also included in the daily curriculum resulting in children enjoying healthy meals as well as being aware of their personal health and safety.
What Can Head Start Offer Your Family?
Head Start recognizes parents as the first and most important teachers of thier children. Parents are encouraged to participate in the Head Start experience by volunteering and/or visiting the classroom as often as possible.
Head Start offers families support in setting family goals, and accessing community services. Families may be referred to other agencies for assistance in establishing a medical or dental home, obtaining a high school General Equivalency Diploma (GED), and/or for employment assistance.
Parents are also part of the policy making group for Head Start. As Policy Council members, parents learn more about budgets, personnel, and planning. As a result they often gain confidence in their own decision making abilities.
Contact Us
Indianhead Community Action Agency
209 E. 3rd. St. S.
P.O. Box 40
Ladysmith, Wisconsin
54848
Phone: 715-532-5594 Fax: 715-532-5804 or E-mail
Contact: Connie Graf, Director, Head Start