Head Start & Early Head Start

Overview

Head Start is a federal program that delivers comprehensive early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services to families with children who are experiencing poverty. Head Start Preschool serves children ages 3 through 5 and Early Head Start serves infants and toddlers under age 3, pregnant women, and their families. 

Serving nearly 40 million children since its founding in 1965, decades of research shows that participation in Head Start has both short- and long-term positive effects. Children who attend Head Start demonstrate marked academic and social progress, and are more likely to enter kindergarten ready to learn.

The program promotes children’s development and supports parents in their role as children’s first teachers and primary caregivers through a variety of services, including home visiting; parent engagement and support; high-quality child care; and nutrition, health, and behavioral health services.

Current Funding Level: Head Start is funded at $12.36 billion (one appropriation for both programs) for FY2026.