Home-Based Programs

The home-based program is unique because it offers families the opportunity to receive Head Start services in their home. This program provides support to families whose circumstances (schedule, transportation, or location) might prevent them from participating in a more structured classroom setting. The Head Start home visitor uses the home environment to help parents create rich learning experiences that build on everyday routines and support their child’s development and readiness for school. This program operates September through May and provides a weekly home visit and two days/month socialization at a Head Start center.

Center – Single Session

This program operates either an AM or PM session; each offering up to 3.5 hours per day; Monday through Thursday. The program runs September through May and is closed during holidays and staff in-service days.

Center – Double Session

This program operates both an AM and a PM session; each offering up to 3.5 hours per day; Monday through Thursday. The program runs September through May and is closed during holidays and staff in-service days.

Single Center Combo

This “combo” program operates a single session program. The program follows the center schedule providing up to 3.5 hours per day; Monday through Thursday. It provides regular home visits by the teacher along with regularly scheduled days (1-2 days/week) in the center. It is a great option for parents of children age 3 years old to transition to a center-based program.  The program runs September through May and is closed during holidays and staff in-service days.

Double Center Combo

This “combo” program operates a double session program. The program follows the center schedule providing up to 3.5 hours per day; Monday through Thursday. It provides regular home visits by the teacher along with regularly scheduled days (1-2 days/week) in the center.   It is a great option for parents of children age 3 years old to transition to a center-based program.  The program runs September through May and is closed during holidays and staff in-service days.

Full-Day Full-Year

The full-day, full-year option offers one session at least 6.25 hours per day, Monday through Friday and is closed during holidays and staff in-service days.  Operating months are September through mid-August.  The program runs September through the middle of August and is closed during holidays and staff in-service days.

Full-Day Part-Year 

The full-day, part-year option offers one session at least 6.25 hours per day, Monday through Thursday and is closed during holidays and staff in-service days.  The program runs September through May and is closed during holidays and staff in-service days.

EARLY HEAD START

Early Head Start (EHS) programs operate year round.  A new program year begins each September but children are enrolled throughout the year as space becomes available.  Once enrolled, children are eligible for EHS until 3 years of age or when they are transitioned into a preschool setting.

Home-Based Program

Imagine your child a few years from now or as an adult. What do you want your child to learn? What kind of person do you want your child to be?  The home-based program was created to help you help your child reach these goals and others.  Once a week, a home visitor will come to your home.  You, your spouse or partner, and your child’s siblings can all take part. You will talk together about your child and how things are going for your family. Together, you will plan activities for you to do with your child during home visits and during the week between visits. Twice a month, you and your child will meet other children and parents, at the Early Head Start center, for a group experience.  These experiences are called socializations or parent-child playgroups.

Center-Based Program

Have your family’s needs or circumstances changed? Are you now employed or attending school? If so, you may be interested in infant-toddler childcare services.  Early Head Start childcare services are available in Bay County and located at the HS-EHS Education Center in Bay City.  Your child will receive care by a consistent person in a safe and nurturing setting designed especially for infants and toddlers.  You will also received 4 home visits a year to talk about your child and how things are going for your family. You and your child’s teacher will work together to make decisions about your child’s care and developmental progress. Childcare services are offered full-day, full-year with the exception of holidays and staff in-service days.

Services to Pregnant Women

If you are expecting a child, EHS can begin providing services in the prenatal period. These services include access to prenatal and postpartum health care, prenatal education, and breastfeeding education.  Do you want to know more about typical fetal development, including the risks of smoking and drinking alcohol; about nutrition during pregnancy; and recovery after the baby is born, including maternal depression? EHS staff members can individualize the program to support expectant parents and meet family needs during the prenatal period.