Government Preschool Programs

The United States Government federally funds the preschool program Head Start. Head Start has been in operation since 1965 and is one of the longest running social programs in the U.S. Each state has it's own set of criteria for enrollment in Head Start, but the program is usually reserved for children of ages 3 years to 6 years, and of parents with an income below the national poverty level. Head Start is divided into two categories: Head Start and Early Head Start.

  1. Head Start

    • This program is intended for 3 to 6-year-olds. The half-day program includes educational, nutritional, health and parent involvement components. The program is intended to be comprehensive so as to better prepare children in low-income families to compete with their peers.

      Eligibility for the program is usually determined based on income. To see if you are eligible, visit your state's Health and Human Services website.

      You can use the Head Start Locator on the U.S. Health and Human Services web site to find a Head Start school close to you.

    Early Head Start

    • Early Head Start also caters to low-income families. However, this program is for children from prenatal care through the age of 3 years. The program also serves pregnant women and their families.

      Eligibility for each of these programs is largely based on income, but may vary state to state. To check if you are eligible for Head Start or Early Head Start, visit your state's Health and Human Services website.

    State Programs

    • Some states may have their own preschool programs to serve young children. Currently Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Oklahoma, New York and West Virginia are the only states that provide universal preschool for 4-year-olds. Illinois has the Preschool for All program and is the only state to serve 3-year-olds. Universal preschools are open to all children who are 4 years old.

      Each state's program varies, but many work with families to determine their individual needs and eligibility. In the U.S., each state determines how much preschooling is available to children.

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