It’s not too late for a great Head Start!
Immediate openings available for eligible Phoenix families
As the school year starts, parents may fear they’ve missed the chance to enroll their child in a quality early education program.
Fortunately, Southwest Human Development’s free Early Head Start and Head Start programs have immediate openings for eligible families in Phoenix seeking high-quality preschool program to prepare their child for kindergarten success and positive outcomes later in life.
Head Start is a comprehensive, research-based initiative that has been supporting Arizona’s children and families for decades.
“Every child, regardless of their circumstances at birth, has the potential to reach great heights,” says Eve DelReal, Director of Head Start at Southwest Human Development. “Our goal is to ensure that all children have access to the high-quality early education and support services that will help them flourish. It’s not just about preparing children for kindergarten—it’s about setting them up for success in life.”
Comprehensive Support for Children and Families
“Head Start offers a unique advantage for families facing difficult circumstances,” says DelReal. “By providing a safe, stable, and nurturing environment, we’re not only helping children succeed in school—we’re giving them the foundation they need to thrive in life.”
Head Start programs take a holistic approach to child development, focusing on four key areas:
Early Learning
Head Start promotes school readiness by introducing children to fundamental concepts in language, math, and literacy through hands-on activities and interactive play. The program is designed to meet the individual needs of each child, including those with special needs, to ensure they are prepared for academic success.
Health
Ensuring that children have access to necessary health services is a core component of Head Start. The program offers medical, dental, and mental health services, along with health and development screenings, nutritious meals, and support for maintaining overall wellness.
Family Well-Being
Head Start recognizes that a child’s success is closely linked to the well-being of their family. The program offers parents the support they need to create stimulating home environments and achieve their personal goals, whether in education, employment, or housing.
Social Services
Head Start provides outreach and support to families, helping them access the services they need to overcome challenges and create a stable, nurturing environment for their children.
Flexible Program Options
Southwest Human Development’s Head Start programs are designed to meet the diverse needs of families. Parents can choose from part-day, full-day, or home-visit programs, depending on their schedules and circumstances. This flexibility ensures that every child has the opportunity to benefit from Head Start’s comprehensive services.
Eligibility and Enrollment
Southwest Human Development’s early education programs serve more than 1,200 children and their families. Programs are offered at Educare Arizona and in the Balsz, Creighton, Madison, Osborn and Paradise Valley school districts. Additionally, Early Head Start-Child Care Partnership programs are offered at several Phoenix childcare centers.
Eligibility varies by program. Children must be 3 years old by August 31 to enroll in Head Start and must be age 5 or under. Early Head Start and Early Head Start-Child Care Partnership programs serve pregnant women and children from birth to age 3. Priority is given to families with incomes below federal poverty guidelines.
Register Now!
Don’t miss this opportunity to give your child the best possible start.
Find out which program options are available for your family.
Call 602-560-0000 or fill out our interest form and an enrollment specialist will be in touch right away.