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Head Start programs support children’s growth from birth to age 5 through services centered around early learning and development, health, and family well-being. Head Start staff actively engage parents, recognizing family participation throughout the program as key to strong child outcomes.
Head Start services are available at no cost to children ages birth to 5 in eligible families. Head Start preschool services work with children ages 3 to 5 and their families. Early Head Start services work with families that have children ages birth to 3, and many also serve expectant families. Many programs operate both Head Start preschool and Early Head Start services. Programs deliver child development services in center-based, home-based, or family child care settings. Head Start programs operate in every state, many tribal nations, and several U.S. territories, including Puerto Rico. All Head Start programs continually work toward our mission for eligible children and families to receive high-quality services in safe and healthy settings that prepare children for school and life.
Since 1965, Head Start programs have reached more than 38 million children and their families.
Children enrolled in Head Start programs are more likely to graduate from high school and attend college; have improved social, emotional, and behavioral development; and are better prepared to be parents themselves than similar children who do not attend the program. Children enrolled in Early Head Start programs have significantly fewer child welfare encounters related to sexual or physical abuse between the ages of 5 and 9 than those who don’t attend. Research consistently shows a broad array of benefits for children at the end of their Head Start enrollment. While these benefits may appear to diminish in the early grades, economic benefits emerge as children become adults. The Head Start program’s two-generation design — coupled with research-based, high-quality comprehensive services — has the power to change children’s outcomes.CSO is proud to offer our STEAM program to our Head Start students.
STEAM Education is an innovative approach that integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics as interconnected pathways for student learning. Here’s what you need to know:
Guiding Inquiry and Critical Thinking: STEAM uses these disciplines to guide student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. It encourages students to explore real-world problems and engage in creative problem-solving.
Learn more about our STEAM program by clicking the button to the right.
CSO offers both Head Start and Early Head Start opportunities for physical education. Students can express themselves through dance and enjoy the fun of tumbling. These activities help students discover their love for these arts early on, potentially inspiring them to pursue these interests after their Head Start journey.
Promotes Physical Health
• Encourages regular exercise, reducing the risk of childhood obesity.
• Enhances motor skills and overall physical development.
• Builds a foundation for a healthy lifestyle.
• Reduces stress and anxiety through physical activity.
• Improves mood and energy levels.
• Enhances focus and cognitive function.
• Encourages teamwork and cooperation.
• Helps children learn to follow rules and take turns.
• Fosters friendships through group activities.
Supports Academic Learning
• Physical activity can improve concentration and classroom behavior.
• Movement-based learning can enhance memory and understanding.
• Integrates fun with learning through activities like dance and tumbling.
| FAMILY SIZE | Annual Income 100% FPL | Annual Income 130% FPL |
| 1 | $15,060 | $19,578 |
| 2 | $20,440 | $26,572 |
| 3 | $25,820 | $33,566 |
| 4 | $31,200 | $40,560 |
| 5 | $36,580 | $47,554 |
| 6 | $41,960 | $54,548 |
| 7 | $47,340 | $61,542 |
| 8 | $52,720 | $68,538 |
| Each additional family member: | + $5,380 | + $6,994 |
CSO Head Starts have direct service locations in Garland and Jefferson Counties. CSO also has several partner Head Start locations throughout Arkansas.
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