It’s Called Head Start For A Big Reason

Give your preschool-aged child the tools they need to succeed

Imagine the possibilities if every Arizona child started out with the support they need to succeed in life. Southwest Human Development’s Head Start, Early Head Start and Early Head Start Childcare Partnerships seek to ensure that every Arizona child has the same chance at success. They give children from birth through 5 years old and their families the foundation they need to flourish.

By working closely with children as well as their parents and educators, Head Start seeks to encourage the growth and development of today’s youth by offering guidance, education and support in the following areas:

Early Learning

Head Start’s early learning efforts help children with or without special needs find their footing in academic environments. In addition to introducing fundamental skills relating to language, math and literacy, among other areas, early learning efforts seek to help kids develop their life skills through instruction and interactive play.

Health

Head Start programs seek to ensure that all participants have access to the medical, dental and health services they need to succeed, function and thrive. All program participants enjoy access to health and development screenings, nutritious meals and snacks, and oral and metal health support, among related services.

Family Well-Being

Parents involved in Head Start programs are more likely to maintain stimulating home environments and play an active role in their child’s development than other parents. They, too, receive critical support through Head Start programs that can help them achieve their academic, financial and residential goals.

Additional Program Benefits

All children who participate in Southwest Human Development’s Head Start, Early Head Start and Early Head Start Childcare Partnerships gain access to highly trained staff, low child-to-teacher ratios and ample opportunity for parental engagement. Parents of Head Start participants also enjoy access to comprehensive social support services and related resources.

Program Options

Head Start programs provide flexible support for children and their families. Part-day programs, full-day programs and home-visit programs are among the many options available to children and families with varying schedules and needs.

Program Eligibility

Southwest Human Development’s Head Start programs serve children and families in the following five school districts: Balsz, Creighton, Madison, Osborn or Paradise Valley. To enroll in Head Start, children must turn 3 prior to August 31 of that school year, while Early Head Start and Early Head Start Childcare Partnerships are available to pregnant women and their children between the ages of 6 weeks and 3 years. Families with income levels that fall below federal poverty guidelines receive priority entry into Head Start programs.

The Office of Head Start within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families is responsible for administering Head Start, Early Head Start and Early Head Start-Child Care Partnership programs.

Program Enrollment

Head Start gives your child his or her best possible shot at school readiness and future academic success. Find out what Head Start options are available for your child and family.

For more information or to enroll your child, call (602) 560-0000 or complete the online form below.

Enrollment Interest Form

Please complete the form below and one of our Head Start enrollment specialists will contact you shortly!