Early Head Start
Local governments can invest in this strategy using State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
- This strategy can help address educational disparities, which the U.S. Department of Treasury has designated as an eligible use of SLFRF funds.
Investments in this strategy are SLFRF-eligible as long as they are made in qualified census tracts or are designed to assist populations or communities disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.
Program basics
- Federally funded early preschool program for children from low-income families
- Services include childcare, parent education, health and mental health services, and family support
- Funds can be used for home or center-based programs
Strength of evidence
Evidence level: Strong (second-highest tier)
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Strong (second-highest tier)
Ranked as having the highest level of evidence by County Health Rankings and Roadmaps; the second-highest level of evidence by the California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse for Child Welfare
Target population
Preschool-aged children
Program cost
Not available
Implementation locations
- Nationwide
Dates active
1995–present
Outcomes and impact
- Positive outcomes in cognitive skills and social-emotional development
- Social-emotional benefits continue through age 10
- Positive effects in a range of parent-related outcomes
Keys to successful implementation
- Note: This section is under review
- Tailor childcare approaches to the cultural context of the community
- Provide comprehensive childcare services including education, health procedures, nutrition, and mental health.
- Use small group sizes: 4 children per teacher, up to a maximum overall group size of 8 children
- Form partnerships to transition children from Early Head Start to regular Head Start
