What Is Head Start?
Head Start is a federally funded early childhood program run by the US Department of Health and Human Services. It serves children ages 3–5 (and families with infants through Early Head Start). The program is completely free for qualifying families and provides not just childcare, but comprehensive services including health screenings, dental care, nutrition, and parent support.
In 2025, Head Start served over 1 million children across the country through 1,600+ grantee organizations.
Head Start vs. Daycare: Key Differences
Cost
- Head Start: Free for qualifying families (income at or below federal poverty level)
- Daycare: Average $700–$2,500/month depending on age and location
Eligibility
- Head Start: Income-based (up to 100% FPL), with 10% of slots reserved for children with disabilities. Foster children qualify automatically.
- Daycare: Open to all families, regardless of income
Hours
- Head Start: Typically part-day (3–4 hours) in many programs, though some offer full-day options
- Daycare: Usually full-day (6–12 hours), structured around working parents' schedules
Location Choice
- Head Start: You attend a designated Head Start center — you can't use the benefit at any provider
- Daycare: You choose your provider (with CCAP subsidy, they must be licensed and certified)
Services
- Head Start: Education + health screenings + dental + vision + nutrition + parent education + family support services — all included
- Daycare: Primarily childcare and early education; additional services vary by center
Curriculum Quality
- Head Start: Federally mandated high-quality curriculum standards (Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework)
- Daycare: Quality varies significantly by center; look for NAEYC accreditation for assurance
Early Head Start: For Infants and Toddlers
Early Head Start is a related program for pregnant women and children ages 0–3. It offers home visits, center-based care, and family partnership services. Also free for income-eligible families. If you're pregnant and income-eligible, apply now — waitlists can be long.
Can I Use Both Head Start and CCAP?
Yes. Some Head Start programs partner with CCAP to extend hours. A child can be enrolled in a Head Start program and receive CCAP subsidy to cover additional hours at another licensed provider. Talk to your local Head Start program about "combination" arrangements.
How to Find and Apply for Head Start
Step 1: Find Your Local Program
Go to eclkc.hhs.gov and use the Head Start Program Locator to find programs in your area. Or call 1-866-763-6481.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Your household income must be at or below the federal poverty level (or you must meet other priority criteria like foster care status or receipt of public assistance).
Step 3: Apply Early
Demand exceeds availability in most areas. Apply as early as possible — ideally while pregnant for Early Head Start, or at birth for Head Start placement by age 3.
Which Is Right for Your Family?
Choose Head Start if:
- You're income-eligible and want free, comprehensive care
- Part-day hours work for your schedule
- You want wraparound family support services
Choose a licensed daycare center if:
- You need full-day care to work
- You want more flexibility in choosing your provider
- You're over the income limit for Head Start
Consider both: if you're eligible, apply to Head Start AND get on the waitlist for CCAP. You can use subsidies even if not in Head Start.
Find Centers Near You
DaycareHub lists both Head Start programs and licensed daycare centers. Filter by program type on our facilities page or visit our subsidies guide for more details.
