Early Head Start | Early Childhood Council of SLV

For Families

Early Head Start programs provide family-centered services for low-income families with very young children, to promote the development of the children, and enable their caregivers to fulfill their roles and to move toward self-sufficiency.

Early Head Start programs provide similar services as preschool Head Start programs, but they are tailored for the unique needs of infants and toddlers. Early Head Start programs promote the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of infants and toddlers through safe and developmentally enriching care giving. This prepares these children for continued growth and development and eventual success in school and life.

Following the general Head Start model, Early Head Start programs support parents, both mothers and fathers, in their role as primary caregivers and teachers of their children. Programs assist families in meeting their own personal goals and achieving self-sufficiency across a wide variety of domains, such as housing stability, continued education, and financial security.

Early Head Start programs also mobilize the local community to provide the resources and environment necessary to ensure a comprehensive, integrated array of services and support for children and families.

Who is the program for?

Pregnant moms, infants, and toddlers through age three who live in the San Luis Valley. Eligibility is based on income, Specific Public Assistance, and family need. Total household income must be within federal poverty guidelines. We encourage all types of families to apply, especially families with children who have disabilities or other special needs and families who are learning English as a second language.

What is Early Head start?

Early Head Start (EHS) is a child development program designed to work with the family to empower the parent(s) with good parenting skills and support services. Services are at no cost to Families Through daily child care at local childcare centers and individualized visits with a trained Family Educator, the EHS program enhances children’s physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development, assists pregnant women in accessing comprehensive prenatal and postpartum care, supports parents’ in their parental roles AND helps parents move toward self-sufficiency. We do not provide daily transportation to and from the center. However, we may be able to provide transportation in certain circumstances in conjunction with other community agencies.

Why should You and YOUR FAMILY be interested?

Parents are active participants in their child’s education from the very beginning! Early Childhood Council EHS will provide you with educational services, health services, nutrition education and assistance in finding other community resources your family may need! Call today! Space is limited!