Early Head Start
SKCDC operates Early Head Start programs for infants, toddlers, and their families. Early Head Start encompasses a comprehensive range of services, similar to Head Start, including child and family development, health and nutrition, and community partnerships. Services are provided in centers and in home-based, family visiting programs. Part and full day services are available for families with infants and toddlers.
Current research regarding brain development during the first three years supports the principles that form the foundation for Early Head Start. SKCDC’s Early Head Start programs support each child’s physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and language development through early education experiences in a variety of settings. Recognizing that parents are children’s first and most important teachers, staff and families create individualized plans that promote the strength-based development of child and family goals. All Early Head Start staff receive ongoing training and professional development opportunities that increase skills in developing caring, supportive relationships with children and families.
Early Head Start programs strive to provide all enrolled children and families with continuity of care that supports the development of strong, stable relationships between caregivers and children.
Families are responsible for transporting children to and from programs. We assist families in accessing community based transportation services and financial supports. Transportation stipends are also available for eligible families.
Expectant Families
We partner with two community based home visiting programs to serve expectant
families: Maine Parent Federation/Parents as Teachers Program and Kennebec
Valley Community Action Maine Families
Program.
Enhancing parent/child relationships, ensuring healthy outcomes for children, promoting child growth and development, teaching problem solving skills, improving the family's support system, and establishing trusting and nurturing relationships are some of the goals of the program.
Families may choose a Early Head Start Program for their child in center-based or home-based programs.
