Early Head Start (EHS) 0

Early Head Start (EHS) Program provides young children (0-3 years old) and their households with essential educational and nutritional opportunities to help them grow and thrive. Households can participate in either center-based or home-based programs. The center-based program operates at three locations and offers a small classroom setting with a 1 to 4 staff-to-child ratio.

The center-based program uses the High Reach Curriculum to encourage exploration and communication development, including sign language. The home-based program includes weekly visits focusing on education, nutrition, and household engagement through the "Parent as Teachers" curriculum. These services help caregivers take part in their child's learning. Home visitors also assist expectant caregivers by providing guidance throughout pregnancy to help meet their nutritional and medical needs.

Head Start (HS)

Head Start is a free program that helps preschool children (3-5 years old) prepare for Kindergarten and beyond. The program supports the nutritional, physical, and learning needs of children. The Springfield Urban League has operated a Head Start Program in Sangamon and Morgan counties since 1990.

The Head Start Program serves at least 619 children across three sites: two in Springfield and one in Jacksonville. To prepare children for school, the program uses the Creative Curriculum, InvestiGator Club, and Jolly Phonics along with other materials that encourage language, literacy, math, science, arts, and physical development. Children participate in a variety of activities including indoor and outdoor play, field trips, music, art, and language experiences. The Conscious Discipline Curriculum helps children build confidence and positive relationships with others.

Who is Eligible?

Children ages 3 to 5 qualify for Head Start services. Expecting caregivers and children from birth to 3 years old qualify for Early Head Start services. Children and households facing unstable housing situations or enrolled in public support programs may also qualify. Eligibility is determined by program staff, and some participants may qualify if their income is at or below federal guidelines. Some sites also enroll children from households with incomes above these guidelines.

Center Locations

  • Cook Site
    1108 E Cook St.
    Springfield, IL 62703
    (217) 528-0893