Early Head Start and Head Start Programs for Children Birth to Age 5

Early Head Start and Head Start are free, community-based programs available across the United States. Availability and enrollment may vary by location.

What are Early Head Start and Head Start programs?
Early Head Start and Head Start are free programs that support children’s development and family well-being from pregnancy through age 5.

• Early Head Start (EHS): Serves pregnant women, infants, and toddlers up to age 3

• Head Start (HS): Serves children ages 3 to 5 (before kindergarten)

These programs support children’s learning, development, health, and family stability.

Why are these programs helpful?
Early Head Start and Head Start support your child’s:

• Learning and school readiness

• Social and emotional development

• Physical health and nutrition

Families may also receive:

• Support with parenting and child development

• Connections to health care and community resources

• Help meeting basic needs

Children in Head Start programs receive free meals and snacks during the day.

Who can enroll?

Early Head Start:

• Children from birth to age 3

• Pregnant women can also enroll

Head Start:

• Children ages 3 to 5

• Your child must be 3 years old by September 1 of the school year

How do I know if I qualify?
Qualification is based on your child’s age and your family’s income.

Children are automatically eligible, regardless of income, if they are:

• In foster care

• Experiencing homelessness

• From families receiving public assistance (TANF or SSI)

Are children with disabilities eligible?
Yes. Children with disabilities are eligible regardless of income.

Can my child enroll if they or someone in my family is not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. A child can enroll in all Head Start programs regardless of immigration status or U.S. citizenship.
A parent’s immigration status or citizenship does not affect eligibility.

What do I need to apply?
Below is a list of things you may need:

Child information

• Birth certificate or Social Security card

• Medical insurance card or SSI card

Proof of address (one of these)

• Current lease

• Current utility bill

• Current credit card or other bill

• Current pay stub with your address

Proof of income (one of these)

• One month of recent pay stubs

• 1040 tax statement

• W‑2 form

• Public assistance form

• Any other form of income

Once your child is enrolled, you will be asked to provide a copy of your child’s most recent physical form. Your child’s healthcare provider can prepare this for you. Additional health updates may be required.

What if I cannot find these documents?
You can still reach out and apply. Program staff may be able to help you get copies of missing documents.

How do I find an Early Head Start or Head Start program near me?
Call the Head Start Information Line at (866) 763‑6481

Visit COMPASS Provider Search and filter for Early Head Start or Head Start to look for programs by state or ZIP code

Reviewed March 2026 Sherita Williams, MS, PHMA