Head Start and Early Head Start
Disabilities Services
Research and practice tell us that when a classroom is
truly developmentally appropriate, it meets the needs of
children with varying abilities. Children with disabilities
have unique needs and they often require additional
services and support if they are to be fully included.
Since 1972, Head Start programs have reserved at least 10 percent of their enrollment for children with disabilities. These disabilities include:
- speech or language delays
- physical disabilities
- health impairments
- autism
- other developmental delays
Mid-America Head Start, in partnership with its delegate agencies and early intervention programs, works with families of children with disabilities to meet each child’s identified needs and to ensure that they experience the full range of activities and services provided to all Head Start children.
How does Head Start benefit children with disabilities?
Children participating in Head Start can:
- receive services and support in a regular classroom without being isolated from peers;
- build friendships with other children from their own community and neighborhood; and
- develop the skills they need to become socially competent — the overall goal of Head Start.
Families participating in Head Start can:
- build connections with other families in the community; and
- discover that children with disabilities can succeed in regular classrooms.
How do I find out more about Head Start and Early Head Start services for children with disabilities?
Contact Mid-America Head Start at 816/474-4240.