Watervliet Early Childhood and Family Services

Head Start is a federal preschool program that promotes the school readiness of children ages birth to 5 from low-income families by enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Telamon operates three types of Head Start programs for disadvantaged families: Head Start (preschool for children ages 3 to 5 years old), Early Head Start (childcare for children 0 to 3 years old and pregnant women), and Migrant and Seasonal Head Start (childcare and preschool for children of eligible farmworkers ages 0 to 5 years old). Children with disabilities are encouraged to participate in all programs. Telamon’s approach to Head Start services includes:

A nurturing environment that supports the healthy growth and development of each child in the context of the child's family, culture, and community
Parents as partners in the shared decision-making process and as active participants in policy groups; and
Recognition of the importance of strengthening linkages within communities.


Our Head Start programs offer a variety of service models, depending on the needs of families in each community. Head Start centers provide a secure setting where children can develop their skills under the watchful eyes of well-trained caregivers. Partial or full-day services at centers include health and dental screenings, nutritious meals, individual as well as group learning experiences, play opportunities and other structured activities. All services and materials are designed to be age and developmentally appropriate as well as sensitive to the cultural and language environment of a child's home. Parents are included in program planning and oversight activities.

Some programs are based in the children’s own home, where staff visit once a week to provide services to the child and family. Children and families who receive these services gather periodically with other enrolled families for a group learning experience facilitated by Telamon staff.