Head Start is a federal program for preschool children from low-income families.  The Head Start program is operated by local non-proft organizations in almost every county in the country.  Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities.  They receive healthy meals and snacks and enjoy playing indoors and outdoors in a safe setting.

Head Start helps all children succeed.  Services are offered to meet the special needs of children with disabilities.  Most children in Head Start are between the ages of three and five years old.

Parent involvement is a crucial part of Head Start.  Parents are offered opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, from riding on the bus, volunteering in a classroom or serving on a committee, in a parent group, or on Policy Council.

Head Start and Your Family

 Head Start offers you a sense of belonging, access to support services and a chance to be involved in activities to help your entire family.  You can take part in training classes on many subjects, such as child rearing, job training, learning about health and nutrition and using free resources in your own community.  Head Start offers assistance to parents interested in obtaining a high school General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or other adult education opportunities.   

Head Start staff members refer families needing help to medical, social service or employment specialists they know in the community.  Staff members will also follow up to be sure you receive assistance. 

Parents' experiences in Head Start have raised their own self-confidence and improved their ability to make decisions.

Head Start and Your Child

Head Start provides children with activities that help them grow mentally, socially, emotionally and physically. Head Start staff recognize that, as parents, you are the first and most important teachers of your children.  They will welcome your involvement in Head Start activities and will work as partners with you to help your child progress.

The Interlocal CAP Head Start program serves approximately 270 children and their families each year through center-based programming in Hancock, Henry and Rush counties with centers in New Castle, Knightstown, Fortville, Middletown, Rushville and Greenfield.

Center-Based Program

Children who attend center-based classes are bused to a warm, welcoming environment where they are valued and secure.  Learning centers are set up throughout the classroom and are designed to give children choices which reflect their interest and stage of development.

Meals and snacks are provided at the centers to help meet the nutritional needs of the children.

Information regarding health services and children with special needs is provided to insure that each child has the opportunity to reach his or her potential.

Parent involvement is vital to the Head Start philosophy, since we believe that parents are the primary educators in their child's life.