What is the Head Start Home-Based Option?

Narrator: Many parents find being a mom or a dad one of the most rewarding and most difficult jobs they'll ever have. Sometimes both in the same day, or even the same hour. Fortunately, you don't have to go it alone. The Head Start Home-Based Program is ready to partner with you to make the most of your child's early years. You probably already know Head Start. We've been around since 1965, and every year, our Home-Based Program serves 70,000 children across the country. Once you enroll in the program, you'll be paired with a home visitor, who spends an hour and a half at home with you and your child each week.

Amber Elicky: I take time to listen to my family, listen to their needs, what they expect out of me. Because, you know, I'm coming into their territory.

Narrator: You'll talk about your child, how you see your role as a parent, questions you have about your child's development, your child's likes and dislikes, and your observations about your child's personality, and how she interacts with others. So, that's the home visit part. About twice a month, there are also small group gatherings where you can meet up with other parents in the program. You get a chance to get some adult company. And your child gets to either interact and play with other preschoolers his age or spend quality time with you and other parents with babies and toddlers. And that's it. Weekly home visits, group gatherings twice a month. Little kids on their way to becoming big kids. We're looking forward to working with you and your family.