Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Where can I contact you?
A. Heartland Head Start
P.O. Box 1585
Bloomington, IL 61702?1585
Office Phone (309) 662-4880 orQuestions@heartlanheadstart.org
Q. What is Head Start?
A. Head Start is a program that helps children and families grow socially, intellectually, emotionally and physically through health, nutrition, classroom and community education.
Q. What will my child learn?
A. Your child will have both fun and educational experiences at Head Start. Children take part in indoor and outdoor play and are introduced to the concepts of words and numbers. The developmentally appropriate curriculum used will help your child develop physically, emotionally, socially and intellectually.
Q. How will I be involved?
A. Your involvement is essential to your child's success in school and in life. We promote an active, family-oriented approach to learning. To be involved, family programs, such as parent/child literary activities, parent education classes and parent meetings are offered Parents are welcome to volunteer in the classroom but must complete a DCFS background check and fingerprinting. You can also be on the Policy Council ? Head Start's decision making group.Q. How do I start?
A. To see if you are eligible for the Head Start program call the McLean County Heartland Head Start office at (309) 662-4880 or the Livingston County Heartland Head Start office at (815) 842-2845 and a receptionist will be happy to help you.
Q. How will my child benefit?
A. In addition to the educational services, we will provide your child with an individual health care program. This includes medical and dental screenings, mental health service and a nutrition program. Each child receives a free meal and snack that meet USDA requirements.Speech therapy is provided for children who need help in improving their speech, or learning English as a second language. Our staff will work with you to meet any other special needs of your child Other specialized therapy may be provided depending on the individual child
Q. How much does it cost?
A. It's Free! Your child must be three to five (3-5) years old by September 1st of the year they begin the program. Families must also meet income eligibility requirements set by the federal government.