10/16/2026
Long before a child walks into a classroom, they're already learning. 💙
They learn through the people they know best: the parents and caregivers who talk, read, play, comfort, answer questions, set routines, and help them explore the world around them.
That's why Head Start recognizes parents and caregivers as their child's first and most important teachers.
For one Early Head Start family, learning has become part of everyday life.
“My child is learning social skills, shapes, colors, her name, animals, and sooo much more. Loves her teacher,” said Alecia, an Early Head Start parent.
And those new skills are making their way through the family, too. The parent told us that “one child helped my other child learn skills because of Early Head Start.”
That's one of the things that makes family engagement such an important part of Head Start. What children are learning doesn't stay in a classroom or end with a visit from their educator. Families can build on it through the conversations, play, routines, and time they spend together.
This parent summed up their Early Head Start experience pretty simply:
“I would say the program is the best program ever. It is so helpful, and the workers are amazing!”
Early Head Start works alongside families during these important early years, building on what parents and caregivers are already doing to help their children learn and grow.
That's one reason Head Start matters. 💙
Early Head Start serves those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Apply at https://www.mmcaa.org/earlyheadstart.html or call or text 1-877-386-4406.
Head Start Preschool serves children ages 3-5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Enrollment continues throughout the school year as space is available, and children may become eligible when they turn 3 or 4. Apply at https://www.mmcaa.org/preschoolheadstart.html or call 989-386-8075.
