Head Start is a federally funded program for children ages three to five. It is designed to help preschool children of income eligible families by providing a comprehensive program to meet their emotional, social, health, nutritional and psychological needs and to prepare the children for a successful transition to the public school. Parents are the most important influence on a child's growth and development. We seek to support parents in this role, and to implement an educational program for children and parents geared to fostering a positive outlook toward education, self-concept, and competency. Our Head Start Program offers a center-based, five days a week full day program at all of our locations. 

Nutrition

• Healthy eating habits are promoted through family style meals and nutritional activities/education for children and families 

• Healthy breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack are served daily

Health 

• Preventative health screenings are completed by the program in areas of vision, hearing, dental, developmental, social emotional, self-help and growth screenings

• Assist families in the referral process for further evaluation for any concerns found

• Dental health activities and brushing twice a day promotes strong oral health skills at an early age

Parent Participation 

• Varied opportunities for parents to take an active part by volunteering in the classroom

• Voting on program issues and planning program activities such as field trips, day of the young child and center celebrations (Parent Group and Policy Council) 

• Parent training programs

Family Services 

• Assisting and empowering families by providing informational resources, referrals and support in obtaining their goals

Disabilities 

• 10% of enrollment in the program is available to children with disabilities

• Works with families and local school districts to ensure timely identification, referral and delivery of services 

• Inclusive and comprehensive approach to ensure children with disabilities can thrive and prepare successfully for school and life

• Support and advocacy to help families understand their rights and participate actively in their child’s development and education

Child Development and School Readiness 

• Engaging children's minds through a variety of stimulating activities geared to each child's strengths and needs in order to prepare them for success as they move on to a formal school setting

• Expectations and goals that gauge the children's progression and mastery across the five broad and interrelated learning goal areas: Communication, Language and Literacy, Cognition and Knowledge of the World, Approaches to Learning, Physical Development and Health, and Social and Emotional Development 

• Individualized planning to improve school readiness in compliance with New York State's Early Learning Goals and the Common Core.

Enrollment

Children must have a record of up-to-date immunizations and a current physical examination prior to the child's first day in the program. A dental examination is expected within 90 days of entry in the program. Income eligibility guidelines are set by the Department of Health and Human Services. There is no charge to families of children attending Head Start. Head Start serves children with disabilities in an inclusive setting. 

Head Start Centers

• Arkville (845) 586-4002
• Davenport 607-278-6020
• Delhi (607) 746-6591
• Deposit (607) 467-3505
• Fishs Eddy (607) 422-3013
• Franklin (607) 829-3312
• Sidney (607) 561-2341
• Walton (607) 865-6319 

Donations 

Donations of classroom supplies (paper, paint, glue, large crayons and pencils, manipulatives, etc.) as well as monetary donations toward classroom activities (field trips and events) are greatly appreciated.