HEAD START AWARENESS MONTH | October
October reminds of Head Start Awareness Month. Head Start programs promote school readiness for children up to five years old from low-income families by working with them, and teaching at their own pace. During Head Start Awareness Month, we celebrate all the work these programs have done for families and children in our communities.
HOW TO OBSERVE
Support a Head Start near you and use #HeadStartAwareness to post on social media. Research shows millions of American children are in need of the opportunities that Head Start programs provide… So, the more you support Head Start, the more children will have a chance at more effective learning. The best way to celebrate Head Start Awareness Month is to spread the word on social media as much as possible, and encourage your friends and family to do the same. You can also donate to the organization by clicking here. Here are a few ways Head Start programs support children’s growth and development through their services.
- Health- All children receive health and development screenings , mental health support, and nutritious meals, as well as medical and dental services as well.
- Early learning- Head Start knows children’s readiness for school comes from learning experiences as well as their environments. These programs help kids form relationships with adults and other children so they grow in many aspects of development.
- Family well-being- Head start programs strengthen and support children’s relationships with their parents, and bring families together to show the importance of education, financial security, and housing stability. (Head start offers help in all these areas)
HISTORY
President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October as Head Start Awareness Month on October 22, 1982. However, the Head Start program itself was created by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965 to provide comprehensive health, nutrition, and educational opportunities for children and families across the United States.