Welcome to Head Start, Early Head Start

and ECEAP

PSESD Early Head Start, Head Start and ECEAP provide free services and support to eligible infants, toddlers and preschool age children and their families. Program locations include child care centers, schools, community colleges and agencies throughout Pierce County and King County outside the City of Seattle. Services and support include: 

Family Support

Our program knows that parents are every child's first teacher and we believe in the strength of the family. Staff provide support services so that each family can achieve and grow in ways they choose. We offer referrals, advocacy, parent training and leadership opportunities.

Child Health and Nutrition Children who are healthy are able to learn and grow. We help parents keep on track with immunizations and exams. Children learn good health habits and receive healthy meals and snacks. Parents receive health education to help them keep their family well.

Child Development 

The heart of our programs is classrooms and services for children. Children participate in age-appropriate learning activities in all areas of development. They receive nutritious meals, screenings and needed follow-up. Each classroom has skilled and trained teachers who work with parents to design individual learning plans for each child.

Disability Services

Including children with disabilities is part of Early Head Start, Head Start and ECEAP. Children with identified disabilities receive additional support and/or services through a local early intervention agency (children ages birth to three) or school district (children ages 3 to 5). 

Mental Health

Our classrooms are positive, safe environments for children to learn and grow.  Teachers develop relationships with children and provide experiences that foster positive social and emotional development. Staff and the family work together to support the child’s and family’s functioning and wellness. 

Parent Involvement

Parents are the backbone of our programs. We invite them to volunteer, participate, learn and grow along with their child.  Parents help make decisions at each center.

Policy Council

Policy Council is one way for parent leaders to be involved. This group governs our programs, making budget, personnel and program recommendations to administrators.

Pregnant Women/Prenatal Services

Early Head Start provides prenatal home visiting services for income eligible pregnant women and their families. Services include prenatal education, birthing plans, community resource and referral and child developments. After delivery, the newborn is eligible for continued enrollment into the Early Head Start program.

Program Models

• Home Based
• Early Head Start offers services to some families through weekly home visits. Child socialization groups and parent meetings are also included.
• Center Based
• Often in a school or community center, these program feature preschool classrooms where children attend a few hours per day.
• Childcare/ Full Day
• Designed for working parents, our childcare/full day models blend quality childcare with all the services detailed above.  Children stay in one place all day – often their younger or older siblings attend the same center. We offer this model in childcare centers, community colleges and family childcare homes.