Early Head Start is a comprehensive, family-centered program that provides high-quality early childhood education, family support, and health services for infants and toddlers ages 0–3 and pregnant women in Ocean County, New Jersey. All services are provided at no cost to eligible families.

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Program Overview

The O.C.E.A.N., Inc. Early Head Start (EHS) program supports children and families during the most critical years of development. Through weekly home visits and parent-child socialization activities, Early Head Start strengthens parent-child relationships, promotes healthy development, and supports family well-being.

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Eligibility is based on federal income guidelines. Families receiving TANF, SSI, or SNAP may also qualify.

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Home-Based Services

Early Head Start is primarily a home-based program. Families receive weekly 90-minute home visits conducted by trained Home Visitors at a time that is mutually convenient.

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During home visits:

• Parents and children participate together in engaging, developmentally appropriate activities

• Families receive guidance on child development, parenting strategies, and school readiness

• Home Visitors partner with parents to support each child’s individual growth and needs
   

The program is built on the belief that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers, and services are designed to support families in that role.

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Curriculum and Learning Focus

Early Head Start uses a research-based curriculum that supports early development in key areas, including:

• Parent and child interactions

• Development-centered parenting

• Family well-being

The curriculum helps infants and toddlers develop socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically, building a strong foundation for future learning and success.

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Parent-Child Socializations

In addition to home visits, families participate in parent-child socialization activities held throughout the month at convenient locations across Ocean County, including O.C.E.A.N., Inc. facilities and community spaces.

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Socializations provide opportunities to:

• Build relationships with other enrolled families

• Participate in group learning activities

• Enjoy developmentally appropriate play such as circle time, art, sensory exploration, and free play
   

Healthy, nutritious, and culturally appropriate snacks are provided. Interpreters are available as needed to support participating families.

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Comprehensive Services

Early Head Start provides or connects families to a wide range of comprehensive services, including:

• Child development and early learning support

• Family support and goal setting

• Health, nutrition, and mental health resources

• Referrals to community services

Services are individualized to meet the unique needs of each child and family.
 

Family Engagement

Family engagement is central to the Early Head Start program. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to actively participate in program planning, goal setting, and learning activities, strengthening family stability and self-sufficiency.
 

Accessibility and Accommodations

O.C.E.A.N., Inc. provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with physical disabilities and language needs. In-house translators are available when required to ensure full access to program services.

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Contact Information

For information on the programs above, please contact the Head Start office in your area.

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Brick Head Start
503 Adamston Road
Brick, NJ 08723

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Manchester Head Start and Early Head Start
2950 Wilbur Avenue
Manchester Township, NJ 08759

Toms River Center on the OCC Campus
1 College Drive
Toms River, NJ 08754

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Head Start Management
264 First Avenue
South Toms River, NJ 08757

Lakewood Head Start
30 East Eighth Street
Lakewood, NJ 08701