Children's Home Society of Florida

The first three years of your child’s life are a few of the most important. During these important developmental years, your child is experiencing the world for the very first time – and this can shape much of his or her future.

Early Head Start can help you guide your child’s early years as you lay the foundation for your child to be ready to enter Pre-K.

Who qualifies?

Children under the age of 3* and pregnant women, including teens.

Your family qualifies if you:
Meet federal poverty guidelines, or
Receive public assistance (TANF, SSI), or
Are homeless, or
Have a child with a disability, or
Are caring for a child in foster care
*If your child is older than age 3, you may qualify if she or he has a disability.

What to expect:
Your friendly, professional Home Visitor will empower you to become your child’s first teacher, guiding you as you help your child reach key milestones, from rolling over to saying those special first words.

Through this free program, you’ll receive:
One-on-one parenting support in the comfort of your home
FamilyTime gatherings twice a month, where you can develop friendships with other parents
Ongoing assessments to track key developmental milestones
Regular assessments to prepare your child for school
Access to qualified professionals ready to help when you have questions about your child’s nutrition, behavior or development
Newsletters with tips to help your child reach milestones, activities in the community and more
Opportunities to participate in the Policy Council, where you can be part of a professional team that makes decisions for the program
If pregnant, we help you prepare for the birth of your child (you can even have a doula, a volunteer who supports you during your final weeks of pregnancy and stays with you – to the extent you’re comfortable – during your baby’s birth!).

Through it all, you’ll nurture and strengthen your child’s first and most important relationship: the one with you.