The Early Head Start Program is a federally funded program that provides comprehensive services to expectant families and families who have children birth to age 3 in Attleboro, Bridgewater, Brockton, East Bridgewater, Middleboro, New Bedford, Norton, West Bridgewater, and Whitman. Our Early Head Start Childcare Partnership Program (EHS CCP) provides free comprehensive services and supports to families with children birth to age 3 in one of our partnership childcare centers, who meet income and categorical eligibility guidelines and are working or attending school full time. Service areas include Brockton, New Bedford, and Taunton.
Our Early Head Start Home-Based Program (EHS HB) provides comprehensive services to families who have children birth to age 3, and expectant families, who meet income and categorical eligibility guidelines. Service areas include Attleboro, Bridgewater, Brockton, East Bridgewater, Middleboro, Norton, West Bridgewater, and Whitman. Comprehensive services in both our program options include child development, dental health, mental health, nutrition, parent engagement, safety, school readiness, social services, and wellness. Early Head Start is funded through federal grants by the Department of Health and Human Services and Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. Early Head Start is an equal opportunity provider and supports children of all abilities and families from all cultures.
Philosophy – Since a parent is the most important person in a child’s life, it is essential that EHS staff and parents work together to individualize goals that promote healthy development and attachments with their children. Staff and parents form partnerships to understand each family’s unique differences, personal values, and cultural expectations.
Program Goals:
- Increase parents’ understanding of the importance of a nurturing relationship, as well as children’s behavior and development.
- Involve parents in setting development goals that enhance school readiness.
- Assist parents to achieve economic self-sufficiency.
Home-based program model:
- prenatal, birth – 3 years of age Weekly 1 ½ hour home visit provided by assigned Parent Child Advocate
- Playgroups for parents and children (transportation available)
- Parent Support Groups
- Weekly home visits
- Involvement in child screening and reassessments
- Resource and Referral to local community agencies as needed, including seasonally to Cradles to Crayons for clothing
- Parent Education workshops and trainings
- Family Activities
Childcare Partnership program model:
- 2x year home visits provided by Parent Child Coordinator (PCC) and Teacher
- Diapers, formula, and wipes provided for free while in attendance at centers
- Resource and Referral to local community agencies as needed
- Weekly home visits
- Involvement in child screening and reassessments
- Resource and Referral to local community agencies as needed, including seasonally to Cradles to Crayons for clothing
- Involvement in Child Screening & Assessment
- Family Activities
- Parent Education workshops and trainings
- Weekly communications provided by assigned PCC
- Interpreter services
- Transportation is available to EHS children, through Child Care Partner
Brochures
Transition Brochures
Contact:
To make a program referral, please contact Meagan Rudenauer at intake number 508-880-0202, ext. 320
