| Type | Child Care Services | Early Head Start | Head Start | Public Pre-k |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program type | Financial assistance to help pay for child care | Early childhood education program | Early childhood education program | Early childhood education program |
| Ages Served | Birth to age 12 (up to age 18 with a disability) | Birth to age 3, pregnant women | Ages 3 to 5 | 3-year-old Pre-k – Must be 3 by September 1st 4-year-old Pre-k – Must be 4 by September 1st |
| Cost to Family | Costs based on family’s income | Free | Free | Free |
| Program Location | At participating licensed or registered child care programs | In Head Start centers, partner child care programs, or schools | In Head Start centers, partner child care programs, or schools | In public schools or at partnering child care programs |
| Availability | Year-round | Year-round or school year, depending on program | Year-round or school year, depending on program | School year |
| Hours | Part-day, full-day, before- and after-school, and nontraditional hours (for example, during evenings and weekends) | Part-day, full-day, or full-day with wraparound services | Part-day, full-day, or full-day with wraparound services | Part-day or full-day (changes for each district or provider) |
| Additional Program Highlights | Families can choose from a different types of high-quality child care programs | Includes health, nutrition, family engagement, and developmental services | Includes health, nutrition, family engagement, and developmental services | Certified teachers and planned curriculum that follows state rules |
Early Childhood Programs At a Glance
Quickly compare your early learning options and find the best fit for your family.