Head Start now enrolling children throughout Aroostook

    ACAP Child and Family Services is currently accepting applications for Head Start and will be enrolling children through the spring and summer months. ACAP operates nine Child and Family Centers throughout Aroostook County, along with a Home-Based Head Start program option. Head Start is a comprehensive preschool education program that emphasizes school readiness, child success and family support.      Children who attend Head Start work with a variety of materials and learning methods that encourage a love for learning. They grow both socially and emotionally, become self confident and improve listening, speaking and problem-solving skills. Children play and learn in a safe and fun environment, receive medical, vision, hearing and dental screenings and enjoy healthy meals and snacks.
    Children who will be 3 or 4 years old by Oct. 15 are eligible to enroll in Head Start. Preference for enrollment is given to children who meet federal income guidelines. However, up to 10 percent of program enrollment can be over-income children. All families are encouraged to apply regardless of income.  
    Children with disabilities are encouraged to apply to Head Start. The program individualizes activities to meet the needs of all children. In some cases specialized services such as speech, physical or occupational therapy are offered at the Child and Family Center. At least 10 percent of total program enrollment is available to children with diagnosed disabilities.
    Home-Based Head Start is available for families in communities without a Child and Family Center or for families who choose to receive services in the home. The goals of Home-Based Head Start support parents as children’s primary teachers with skills and activities toward school readiness and as their families’ advocates.
    Both part-day and full-day Head Start services are available. Children in part-day Head Start attend Monday through Thursday for three and one half hours per day, following a calendar similar to public school. Full-day services are offered at ACAP Child and Family Centers in Presque Isle, Fort Kent, Caribou and Houlton. These services are available to children whose parents are working, attending school or training programs and need child care services, in addition to Head Start.
    There is no fee for Head Start services. If a child is enrolled in a full-day program and needs child care, a fee is assessed for the child care services.
    Children enrolled in public school pre-K programs may also attend Head Start. A full day of preschool education may benefit many children. ACAP will work with families and with public pre-K programs to arrange a schedule that allows children to attend both programs.
    ACAP works closely with parents to assure their child’s progress. Family members are always welcome to volunteer in classrooms. ACAP also offers parent education around parenting skills, health, nutrition and support to access community resources.
    For more information, call 764-3045 or 800-432-7881.