Southern 7 Head Start celebrates Head Start Awareness Month
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
ULLIN, Ill., (KBSI) — October marks Head Start Awareness Month, a time to recognize the positive impact the program has made on children and families nationwide since its creation in 1965.
President Ronald Reagan first proclaimed October as Head Start Awareness Month on Oct. 22, 1982. Since then, teachers, parents, and alumni have continued to honor the program’s success through activities that highlight its influence on early childhood education.
Southern 7 Head Start (S7HS) will celebrate the observance throughout October at each of its centers, engaging children and families in activities that explore the history and mission of Head Start. The federally funded program provides free, comprehensive early learning services designed to prepare children for kindergarten.
“What began in 1964 under President Johnson as an idea became a nationwide child development program in 1965,” the organization said. “Head Start helps children grow socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically, supporting nearly 800,000 children across the country each year.”
“Head Start is much more than day care,” said Shawnna Rhine, community outreach coordinator for S7HS. “In addition to kindergarten readiness skills, children receive health, dental, and developmental screenings, participate in educational and social activities, and enjoy healthy meals and snacks. It’s a well-rounded approach to early development that benefits the entire family.”
Families enrolled in Southern 7 Head Start programs also have access to mental health services, parent engagement opportunities, special education support, and services offered through the Southern 7 Health Department, including vaccinations, health screenings, and the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Supplemental Nutrition Program. Parents are encouraged to volunteer and participate in the Head Start Policy Council.
Southern 7 offers both Head Start and Early Head Start programs for income-eligible families living in the seven southernmost counties of Illinois. Head Start serves children ages 3 to 5, while Early Head Start serves infants and toddlers ages 6 weeks to 3 years. Both programs offer full-day enrollment, with Early Head Start available year-round. A home-based option is also available for families upon request, and Head Start maintains dual enrollment with Pre-K.
For more information about Southern 7 Head Start, call 618-634-2297 ext. 971127, visit Home – Southern 7 Health Department, or download the Southern 7 App.
