There are approximately 18,000 family services professionals currently working in Head Start programs. Their work is at the heart of how Head Start programs support families. 

This is an introductory guide that describes the key responsibilities, skills, and competencies of the family services staff in their journey with families and children in the program. It guides their work with families when their children are enrolled in Head Start programs and as they transition to other early childhood programs or schools.

How the Overview Is Organized

This overview has four sections: 

• The Foundations of Family Engagement. Learn how to use the Head Start Parent, Family, and Community Engagement (PFCE) Framework as a road map for families and staff to work together to achieve their individual and family goals.
• Building Relationships and Partnerships with Families. Review how a strengths-based approach to family engagement can lead to positive outcomes for families and their children.
• On-the-Job Roles and Responsibilities. Explore the different aspects of your work — including outreach, recruitment, the family partnership process, and goal-setting — that are essential to a high-quality program.
• Community Partnerships and Engagement. Consider how community engagement and partnerships help families achieve their goals and help your program achieve its goals.

Each section has reflection questions to help you apply the information and write key takeaways and action steps. You can also find links to research-based resources. Additionally, each section offers ideas and insights from program staff and leaders, the Head Start Training and Technical Assistance (TTA) Network and National Centers, and other experts in the early childhood field.

Last Updated: August 8, 2024