Head Start provided free childcare, preschool, and related services to disadvantaged families with the aim of increasing children's school readiness and supporting parental well-being. The program provided home and center based care and education as well as wellness visits, parenting classes, and networking opportunities. Head Start also served as a bridge to additional public services such as health care, nutrition, and housing assistance.
The program targeted families living at or below the federal poverty thresholds with children aged three to four. The nationally representative study was conducted across 23 states and Puerto Rico.
Head Start provided free childcare, preschool, and related services to disadvantaged families with the aim of increasing children's school readiness and supporting parental well-being.