Many programs are already using virtual delivery methods to develop and support family engagement. The five strategies and other tips in this resource can support parent learning, integrate learning into real life, and build relationships and community. These approaches can increase access and improve convenience and flexibility for both families and staff.

You may want to design a virtual family engagement approach for your own program. When you do, consider the unique context of the programs and families you serve. No matter how family engagement occurs (e.g., in-person, virtually, or both), remind yourself of what is essential: building relationships with families, building on families’ strengths, and focusing on parents as their child’s first and most important teacher.

Office of Head Start Guidance

When making decisions about virtual service enhancements for family services and engagement efforts, programs should consult ACF-PI-HS-21-04 Office of Head Start (OHS) Expectations for Head Start Programs in Program Year (PY) 2021–2022, the Head Start Forward webinar series, and their regional office.

Last Updated: December 23, 2021