Head Start is a comprehensive preschool program for children ages 3–5 years old from disadvantaged families. 

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The Foundation of Head Start

From the beginning, Head Start programs have offered comprehensive services to children and families. Early learning, health, and family well-being supports work together to ensure children are ready to learn.

Head Start staff work closely with families to help them set goals, address their most pressing needs, identify strengths, and build confidence and self-sufficiency.

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Program Overview

Head Start is a comprehensive preschool program for children ages 3–5 years old from disadvantaged families. Eligibility is based on income guidelines established by the federal government. To be eligible, family income must be at or below 100% of the federal income guidelines. Families receiving TANF, SSI, or SNAP may also be eligible.

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The program provides services in five major areas:

• Education

• Health

• Social Services

• Parent Involvement

• Special Needs
   

Education

Every child receives a variety of learning experiences designed to support physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. The program combines teacher-directed and child-directed activities to foster school readiness and lifelong learning skills.

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Health

Head Start arranges for children to receive comprehensive health services when needed, including:

• Complete medical examinations

• Vision and hearing screenings

• Dental examinations

• Nutrition services

• Mental health screening and services

Medical services include identification of disabling conditions and assistance with immunizations. Registration for WIC (Women, Infants and Children) services is available and encouraged.

Nutrition services include at least one hot meal and one nutritious snack each day. All nutrition activities are supervised by the agency’s Nutrition Services Manager.

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Mental health professionals are available to provide support and education to staff, parents, and children.

Parent Involvement

Parents are encouraged to actively participate in the Head Start program by:

• Joining the Policy Council and having a voice in program decisions

• Volunteering as teacher aides, storytellers, cooks, or clerical assistants

Parent involvement is a core component of the Head Start philosophy.

Social Services

Head Start emphasizes assisting families in identifying their individual needs and connecting them with appropriate community resources. Families receive guidance and referrals to support services, including resources for emergency situations when needed.

Special Needs

Special needs services, including speech and mental health consultation, are available at each Head Start site. Children with diverse needs are welcomed and supported to ensure inclusive participation in the program.

All Head Start staff are trained professionals who meet program requirements and possess the skills necessary to support young children. All staff are CPR certified and First Aid trained.

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Head Start programs not only enhance children’s growth and development, but also promote family self-sufficiency and strengthen community partnerships.

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O.C.E.A.N., Inc. currently operates Head Start programs at multiple locations throughout Ocean County, including Brick, Berkeley, Barnegat, Toms River, and Manchester.

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O.C.E.A.N., Inc. provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with physical disabilities, including first-floor accommodations and elevator access where available. Language assistance is provided through in-house translators when required for program services.

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Contact Information

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Brick Head Start
503 Adamston Road
Brick, NJ 08723

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Manchester Head Start
2950 Wilbur Avenue
Manchester Township, NJ 08759

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Toms River Center (OCC Campus)
1 College Drive
Toms River, NJ 08754

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

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Lakewood Head Start
30 East Eighth Street
Lakewood, NJ 08701