Child Development Program Options and Locations

Summary of Program Models

PART DAY HEAD START

This program model provides preschool experiences for children 3 to 5 years of age. It is designed to meet each child’s developmental needs. The program involves the whole family in a multifaceted approach to early education with a focus on school readiness. In addition to individualized child development activities each child’s medical, dental, nutritional, emotional, and social needs are addressed. Head Start services are delivered through center attendance and home visits.Classroom hours vary from 3.5 – 6 hours depending on location in this model. Centers are located in Derry, Greenville, Hillsborough, Manchester, Nashua, Raymond, Portsmouth, Hampton and Seabrook.

HEAD START WITH WRAPAROUND CHILD CARE

This program model meets the needs of parents who are working or are in programs designed to support families with self-sufficiency goals. The program has five centers that provide wrap around childcare in addition to Head Start services. These centers are open an average of ten hours per day to meet the needs of families. Each center works with the State Scholarship system to provide assistance for families who meet the guidelines. The program employs dedicated professionals with backgrounds in early education, health, mental health, family services, and nutrition. Centers are located in Manchester, Nashua, and Hillsborough.

EARLY HEAD START

The Early Head Start Program is a comprehensive child development program that works with children from birth to three. There are two program options in Early Head Start. The center-based option provides full day services for children ages 6 weeks to three years. The home-based option works with families from the prenatal period to three years. Families participating in home based participate in a weekly home visit with a focus on child development and health. Parent participation in the visits is an important part of the program. There are also regular opportunities for group social activities. Centers are located in Manchester and Nashua.

CHILD CARE

The Child Care Program model offers high quality childcare. Support from the CCDF Scholarship (Child Care Development Fund Scholarship) and grants from the Monadnock United Way and United Way of Greater Nashua have ensured that childcare remains affordable to low-income working families. Programs are designed to meet each child’s individual needs. A dedicated staff provides a variety of learning experiences that encourage social, emotional, physical and cognitive growth. The centers are located in Nashua, Manchester and Hillsborough.

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Aan after School Program is available at the SNHS Hillsborough Child Development Center. This program provides care for students in grades K-5. The Hillsborough program provides a nurturing environment that promotes positive growth and development. Staff walk children from the local elementary school.

For additional information about the program or to complete an application, call your local center at the number listed below. During the months of June-August, please call our central office at (603) 668-8010, ext. 6098 or 1 (800) 322-1073, ext. 6098. Applications are accepted year round. We look forward to hearing from you!

The following are locations and contact information for area Head Start and Early Head Start Programs: