Head Start is an early childhood pre-school developmental program. Since 1965, Head Start has provided comprehensive health, education, nutrition and social services to more than eleven million children. Head Start believes that the gains made by a child must be understood and built upon by the family and community. To achieve this goal, parents and other members of the family are involved in the experiences their children receive. To stimulate child growth and family development, Head Start focuses upon four component areas. These component areas and what each one provides are outlined below:

• Varied age-appropriate activities. These experiences help children to develop—socially, intellectually, physically and emotionally.
• Medical, dental and speech screenings and follow-up. Health, nutrition and mental health education for children and families is vital.
• Increase in family awareness of community and social service agencies while helping to develop strategies for meeting individual/family needs.
• Opportunities for parents to participate in decision-making groups, to develop parent activities, and to work with children in cooperation with Head Start staff.

Buchanan County Head Start operates center and home-based options throughout Buchanan County, VA. Children who attend a center go to school Monday through Friday, with classrooms being open 7:30 am until 2:15 pm. Center-based children receive breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack daily.  The home-based option provides a home visitor who makes one weekly visit to the home. In addition, the children receive socialization activities twice a month. Children are provided lunch on socialization outings.