Head Start isn't just for children! Many Head Start services are designed especially for the Head Start parent. Head Start offers the following services for adults:
Support in meeting family goals
The Head Start staff is prepared to help you design goals for your family, and can link you with the community services that you need to accomplish these goals. Resources are available to help you find a job, learn English, obtain a GED or high school diploma, or even go to college. The possibilities are truly endless !
Assistance for families in crisis
Families that are in need of assistance such as food, shelter, or protection from domestic violence, Head Start staff members are trained to assist you in obtaining emergency resources.
Family-oriented activities for parents and children
Because you are your child's first and most important teacher, Head Start hosts family-friendly events to bring you and your child closer together. Activities can include volunteering in your child's classroom, participating in field trips, or attending Head Start Family Days with your child. Head Start understands the importance of positive male influence in the lives of children, Head Start hosts events designed especially for fathers and significant males in your child's life.
Decision-making opportunities
In Head Start, parents make the most important classroom decisions. Parents provide lesson planning ideas, feedback on menus, and choose how they will spend funds for parent training and activities.
In addition, some parents will participate in the Head Start Policy Committees and Policy Council. In these meetings, parents have the opportunity to give input into larger program issues such as the program's budget, classroom locations, eligibility criteria, and the types of services to be offered. Parents who participate in the Policy Council share decision-making authority over the program with the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors.
To see the most recent Policy Council minutes and agendas, click here.
Employment and professional growth opportunities
Head Start offers a variety of programs to promote your professional growth. In fact, many of Maricopa County Head Start's current staff members started out as parents of Head Start children. Some examples of the parent development programs we currently offer are:
The "Dress for Success" program provides parents with professional skills such as resume writing, interviewing, and lessons on professionalism. In addition, participants receive an outfit suitable for job interviews.
The "Substitute Institute" is a six-week training program to prepare parents to work as substitute teacher aides for the program. For parents who are interested in teaching for the Head Start program, this is an excellent way to get on board.
For parents who become Head Start staff members, the program provides exceptional tuition benefits, and can pay for college tuition and books for staff members working toward a degree.
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