Parent , Family and Community Engagement

In viewing the videos of families who have and had children in Head Start made me understand and appreciate the program even more. Head Start benefits not only the child and their family it benefits the community as well by providing needed services to under income families getting them where they can be self -sufficient and productive.

The parent and family Involvement benefit the child by the parents being involved in their child’s education and success in school. It gives the families the opportunity to volunteer at the child’s school, serve on committees and be a part of the decisions that are made in the program especially when they serve on the Policy Council Committee. Take part in their child’s classroom as an observer, or a volunteer, and contribute their time and input to enrich the program. The child gets to see that their parent is taking an interest therefore enhancing the child’s self -esteem. Additionally parents working with staff and other parents in a cooperative way to achieve mutual goals benefits the child success.

 

I believe the value for early childhood professionals, the public and for policy makers and government officials hearing such stories is that by hearing them they will understand the importance Head Start has on children, families and the communities where the centers are located and the importance of advocating for continued funding for the program and for qualified teachers and support staff to teach and provide services such as health and nutrition services, early detection for  disabilities. Mental Wellness Services or therapy is also provided, as needed, to address children’s social-emotional needs.