Parent Handbook > Aloha & Welcome

    Head Start is a comprehensive early childhood and care program for economically disadvantaged families with children between the ages of 3 and 5. We are funded by the Federal Government, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and the State of Hawaii.

    Head Start has played a major role in focusing the attention of the country on the importance of early childhood development. It has served as a model for many programs in the planning of child development and day care services, on the expansion of state and local activities for children and their families, and on the design of training programs for those who staff such programs.

    The program has led in efforts to improve the cognitive abilities and social competence of young children. Studies have indicated that Head Start children score higher than comparable non-Head Start children in preschool achievement tests that measure these abilities. The studies also show that Head Start children perform equal to or better than their peers do when they enter regular school, and there are fewer grade retention and special class placements.

    The Head Start outreach and training programs have helped provide low-income parents with the knowledge and resources they need to build a better life for their children. Direct involvement of parents in Head Start planning and policy-making have given families a greater role in the welfare of their children.

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