Head Start

For children ages 3 to 5 whose families meet the eligibility criteria.

Head Start is a federally funded and locally operated program that provides comprehensive early childhood education, health and social services to families with children. Head Start programs help children develop academic and social skills that prepare them for school and life. While enrolled in our high quality Head Start preschool program, children will receive nutrition, health and supports that help them grow mentally, physically and socially.

Our program's services and resources are designed to foster stable family relationships, enhance children's physical and emotional well-being, and establish an environment to develop strong cognitive skills. We help teach children to engage successfully with their peers outside of the home, adjust to the space of a classroom, and meet the expectations of the public school setting.

Families are also offered support to help them obtain services for a variety of needs such as employment or housing. Families are offered  monthly home visits and have many opportunities to volunteer in the classroom with their child, attend workshops, and can become involved in many other ways. 

The program is FREE to all eligible children and operates full-day programs.

Activities for Children:

• Enjoy safe and licensed facilities
• Be part of a high quality early childhood education program and learn important skills to prepare for entering into Kindergarten
• Attain school readiness and early literacy development
• Gain exposure to literature, both fiction and non-fiction
• Learn math skills, science lessons, and discovery
• Develop social skills and self-help skills
• Engage in large motor and fine motor activities
• Enjoy music, dance, and art
• Get developmental and health screenings/assessments
• Receive nutritious meals daily

Activities for Parents:

• Participate in activities and workshops for parents
• Engage in regular opportunities to volunteer for parents
• Get the support in the learning journey of raising your child

In addition, our Head Start program offers resources and information on health, nutrition and social services, as well as child development. We encourage parents to become involved in all aspects of Head Start, including decisions about the program itself. Training and information on a variety of topics is also offered to parents.

Also, our program provides or refers families for services to meet each child's developmental needs, including individualized activities developed with input from parents, medical providers and other agencies. Staff work closely with families and other agencies to identify and monitor potential disabilities.

For more information, contact us!

Broome County families- 607-723-6493

Chenango County families- 607-334-7114