School readiness is foundational across early childhood systems and programs. It means children are ready for school, families are ready to support their children's learning, and schools are ready for children. Head Start views school readiness as children possessing the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for success in school and for later learning and life. Physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development are all essential ingredients of school readiness. Managers, teaching staff, caregivers, family advocates, and families can learn more about creating enriching and supportive learning environments for young children ages birth to 5.
Explore this resource to learn how supporting families in their relationships with their children promotes learning, healthy development, and later success in school and in life.
Learn more about the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) anywhere you go, by downloading this useful mobile app designed for teachers.
Health connects to school readiness long before a child enters school. Healthy development continues to support learning throughout childhood and later life. "Health in the earliest years—actually beginning with the future mother's health before she becomes pregnant—lays the groundwork for a lifetime of well-being…"
Communities support families' interests and needs and encourage parent and family engagement in children's learning.
Parents and families observe, guide, promote, and participate in the everyday learning of their children at home, school, and in their communities.
Use this video to guide reflection and enhance practices that support language development with infants, toddlers, and their families.
Explore the relationship between nutrition and nourishment. Learn how to use feedings and mealtimes to support infants’ and toddlers’ overall development.
Domain: Social and Emotional Development
The Head Start Approach to School Readiness means that children are ready for school, families are ready to support their children's learning, and schools are ready for children.
Explore this News You Can Use where we discuss ways adults can be more intentional in how they support young children’s math learning and school readiness.