April 29, 2026
Early Head Start and Head Start promotes child development through engaging activities such as play, exploration, and early learning experiences that build the foundation for school readiness and lifelong success for low-income families. In a safe and nurturing environment, children grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively while developing the skills needed for future learning.
Children in the program receive regular vision, hearing, and developmental screenings, and families are connected to medical, dental, and mental health services to support overall well-being. Recognizing that families are a child’s first and most important teachers, EHS/HS provides individualized support, resources, and guidance to help parents achieve their goals, strengthen family well-being, and support their child’s long-term success.
Early Head Start serves expectant mothers and children from 6 weeks to age 3, while Head Start supports children ages 3 and 4 (5 if not kindergarten eligible). Services are offered at no cost to families who qualify, including those at or below federal poverty guidelines, children with disabilities, children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving public assistance.
TCOC EHS/HS serves 9 counties with 25 classrooms and 5 Parent-Child Educators (PCE). There are a total of 9 classrooms and 2 PCEs that provide services in Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside counties.