Head Start and Early Head Start help younger children and their families across Tennessee. These programs have been serving communities for over 60 years. Today, more than 16,000 children attend Head Start programs at over 400 locations in Tennessee.
Early Head Start is for infants and toddlers, while Head Start supports preschool-aged children. These programs help children learn, grow, and get ready for school. Children build foundational skills in reading, math, sharing, and listening. They also learn how to be healthy and safe.
Learning early is very important. In the first five years of life, a child's brain grows faster than at any other time. What they learn during these years helps shape how they think, feel, and behave for the rest of their lives. Children who attend high-quality early learning programs are more likely to do well in school, graduate, and have better jobs when they grow up.
Head Start also helps parents. Parents, along with their children, can get health screenings, learn about good nutrition, and take part in school activities. Some Head Start centers even stay open during the summer, so children can keep learning while school is out.
The goal of Head Start is to break the cycle of poverty and give every child a strong foundation for life. When children and families get support early, it leads to brighter futures.
Want To Find a Head Start Program Near You? Visit:
Each Head Start program may offer different services. To learn more about what's available in your area, contact your local Head Start school or visit Head Start’s website, find a program webpage. They'll be happy to help!