What is Early Head Start?
Early Head Start, established in 1994 by the Head Start Reauthorization Act, offers comprehensive child development and family support services to low-income infants, toddlers and their families.
Who is eligible to participate in Drake University Early Head Start?
At the time of application, families must:
- Live within Polk County.
- Have a child less than three years of age.
- Meet federal low-income guidelines. Drake University Early Head Start may accept children whose family income exceeds federal poverty guidelines.
- Be willing to participate in Early Head Start activities.
Drake University Early Head Start has established priorities for enrolling children based upon child and family circumstance, community needs and available funds.
What does the Drake University Early Head Start program offer?
Drake University Early Head Start is a free, comprehensive, home-based program offering information and support to families with infants and toddlers. Early Head Start staff and families work together during home visits and other program activities to create opportunities to promote healthy beginnings, optimize the development of infants and toddlers and foster the continuity of responsive, nurturing relationships. Infants and toddlers with special needs may be served through the Early Head Start program.
Goals of Drake University Early Head Start:
- To promote and support breastfeeding.
- To enhance the physical, social, emotional and cognitive development of infants and toddlers.
- To support parents as the most important and on-going teachers and nurturers of their children.
- To enhance the bond between parents and their infants or toddlers and to promote positive interactions.
- To offer activities and support for fathers and significant male caregivers.
- To assist parents in developing strategies and support networks to achieve their goals.
- To promote parents' progress toward self-sufficiency.
- To provide information, training and support to child care providers.
