What is Head Start?

Salt Lake CAP Head Start is a comprehensive early childhood development program serving low-income children from age three to five and their families. Head Start is a Federal program that is operated by local non-profit organizations such as Salt Lake Community Action Program (CAP). Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities including literacy, language, science, social-emotional, and much more. They also receive medical and dental services, have healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy playing safely indoors and outdoors.

In addition to the educational services provided by Head Start, family involvement is at the core of its success. Head Start families can take part in the classroom as a volunteer, help with classroom projects, and even help develop curriculum. Elected family members take part in our Policy Council, a board that partners with staff members in decision-making responsibilities for the program. Families can participate in trainings in areas such as child rearing, job training, health and nutrition, as well as learn about other resources in our community.

Benefits of Head Start

Numerous studies have confirmed time and again that a child’s learning begins at birth. For low-income children, quality pre-kindergarten education such as provided by Salt Lake CAP Head Start is crucial in establishing life-long healthy patterns and development. Because experiences between birth and age five shape a child for life, the quality of the child’s environment, social interactions, and learning experiences during those years is critical.

Program Options

(Options vary by site.)

• Half-day a.m. & p.m.
• Full-day (approximate times 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.)
• Home Based
• Breakfast, lunch and snack served during class time.

More Information

Please visit the following web sites for more information on Head Start and other early childhood issues.

• Salt Lake CAP Head Start: www.headstart-slcap.org
• Salt Lake CAP: www.slcap.org
• National Head Start Association: www.nhsa.org
• National Association for the Education of Young Children: www.naeyc.org
• Department of Health and Human Services: www.acf.hhs.gov
• Fight Crime: Invest in Kids: www.fightcrime.org