Description:Astor operates all the Head Start Programs in Dutchess County. Head Start is a federally funded program for children from low-income families. It is a preschool developmental program of early childhood education and ancillary services including health (physical, dental, mental), nutrition, and social services, with extensive parental involvement and participation. Children with disabilities are served within a fully integrated setting with non-disabled children.
The goal of Astor’s Head Start and Early Head Start Programs is to provide a comprehensive child development program for children, ages 0 to 5, often from low-income families in Dutchess county.
Head Start Programs support the parent as the child’s primary teacher. Astor believes that an essential part of the program is the involvement of parents. They are given the opportunity to participate in parent education, program planning, serving as center volunteers, and as members of advisory councils and committees. Adult education opportunities are available to all parents. This program is individualized to assist the child’s development socially, emotionally, intellectually, and physically. Support can include physical, dental, mental health, nutrition, and social services.
The Early Head Start Program provides services through two models — home-based and center-based. The home-based program consists of a weekly 90-minute home visit by a Parent Infant Educator who supports the parents and child with information and activities on child development, parenting skills, nutrition, and health.
The center-based Nurturing Rooms offer small groups of children of mixed ages (six weeks – 18 months through three years) opportunities for individualized development through primary care giving; one-on-one routines; and exploration of interesting, safe materials in a child-focused environment.