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Head Start

WCCA Head Start is a comprehensive early childhood development program serving low-income children from age three to five and their families. Head Start is a Federal program that is operated by a local non-profit organization – West Central Community Action (WCCA). Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities including literacy, language, science, social-emotional, and much more. They also receive medical and dental services, have healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy playing safely indoors and outdoors. In addition to the educational services provided by Head Start, family involvement is at the core of its success. Head Start families can take part in the classroom as a volunteer, help with classroom projects, and even help develop curriculum. Elected family members take part in our Policy Council, a board that partners with staff members in decision-making responsibilities for the program. Families can participate in training in areas such as child-rearing, job training, health, and nutrition, as well as learn about other resources in our community.

Preschool Class
Child with a Bear

Early Head Start

Early Head Start Home-Based Program is a comprehensive, flexible child development and parenting education program delivered through home visitation for prenatal women and families with children aged birth to three. The focus of the parent component is to assist parents to build skills to promote their child's development, increase family literacy, and encourage healthy parent‐child relationships. Home-based teachers bring in activities to help you support healthy brain development for your children. Providers also give parenting support and education and assist families with transitioning their children into Head Start or other preschool programs when the child reaches age three. Family advocacy, resource, and referral to other community services are also provided.

Benefits of Head Start

Numerous studies have confirmed time and time again that a child's learning begins at birth. For low-income children, quality pre-kindergarten education such as provided by WCCA Head Start is crucial in establishing life-long healthy patterns and development. Because experiences between birth and age five shape a child for life, the quality of the child's environment, social interactions, and learning experiences during those years is critical.

Contact us for more information

1-800-698-5886

Program Options

Head Start & Early Head Start Center Based Options

Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 3p.m.

Days & Times may vary by location.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Snack served during class time. 

Early Head Start Locations

Center-bASED

Shelby

Pottawattamie

Montgomery

Crawford

Home-based

Cass

Fremont

Mills

Montgomery

Page

Head Start Locations

Cass

Monona

Crawford

Montgomery

Fremont

Page

Harrison

Pottawattamie

Mills

Shelby

1-800-698-5886
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