Philosophy and Goals
The Head Start Program is based on the premise that all children share certain needs, and that most children of low-income families, in particular, can benefit from a comprehensive developmental program to meet those needs. The Head Start Program approach is based on the philosophy that
The program is designed to maximize the strengths and unique experiences of each child. The family, which is perceived as the principal influence on the child's development, is encouraged to be a direct participant in the program.
Head Start's mission is to provide quality comprehensive services to income eligible preschool children to enhance their readiness for school, family involvement in education, self-sufficiency, and parent education is also emphasized.
A child can benefit most from a comprehensive inter-disciplinary program to foster development and remedy problems as expressed in a broad range of services; and that
The child's entire family, as well as the community, must be involved.