Family Services Guide to Professional Growth

This guide helps Head Start programs support the growth of family services staff. It has two sections — one for program leaders and one for family services staff.

• Program leaders and managers can use the program-level section to plan training and career growth for their team.
• Family services staff can use the individual-level section to make their own development plans and work toward career goals.

Both sections include clear steps, tools, and examples to support learning. 

Why Professional Development Matters in Head Start Programs  

Professional development helps staff do their jobs well. It also improves program quality and is required by the Head Start Program Performance Standards (the Performance Standards). Strong leadership is needed to build a learning culture and support staff growth. 

Professional Development Strengthens Head Start Programs

Professional development is a key part of learning organizations. In early childhood education, programs reach excellence when they offer learning opportunities and encourage staff to keep growing. The Head Start Parent, Family, and Community Engagement (PFCE) Framework highlights two important parts of program success:

• Professional Development
• Continuous Learning and Quality Improvement

Professional learning gives staff the skills they need to deliver high-quality services and partner with families. It also supports career growth.

Professional development can happen in many ways, such as:   

• Attending workshops, webinars, or presentations
• Going to local, state, or national conferences
• Taking classes or online courses
• Learning on the job through coaching, internships, or job shadowing
• Connecting with peers through networks or communities of practice 

Head Start Program Performance Standards Support Staff Growth

Head Start programs must offer professional development to all staff. The Performance Standards set rules for training, qualifications, and staff wellness. These rules help programs deliver strong services and positive outcomes for children and families.

• Training and professional development, 45 CFR §1302.92:
  • The Office of Head Start requires staff to complete at least 15 hours of professional development each year. 
  • Family services staff must also get training on:
    • Using best practices to support family engagement across the program.
    • Building knowledge, skills, and experience to improve outcomes for children and families.
• Staff qualifications and competency requirements, 45 CFR §1302.91(d)(1), (e)(6)(7):
  • The Office of Head Start sets qualification requirements for:
    • Family services managers
    • Home visitors
    • Family services staff who work directly with families 

These requirements make sure staff have the knowledge, training, and experience to do their jobs well. 

• Staff health and wellness, 45 CFR §1302.93: Programs must build a culture of wellness that values staff and helps them succeed in their work. 

For more details, review the Education Requirements for Family Services Managers and Staff resource.  

Program Leadership Builds a Culture of Learning

Program leaders play an important role in staff growth. When they support staff and set clear goals, they help create a learning culture. For this reason, “Program Leadership” is a key part of Program Foundations. 

Tailoring Professional Development to Staff Needs

Head Start programs must make sure all staff have access to learning and career planning that fits their needs. Staff grow the most when opportunities match their strengths, learning styles, and goals. Examples include:  

• Different learning formats: Offer videos, readings, and interactive activities.
• Supports for staff with learning differences
  • Share written information ahead of time.
  • Allow extra time to think about new information.
• Building on lived experience: Recognize knowledge staff bring from life, such as current or former Head Start parents.
• Equal opportunities: Make sure staff have the same chances to grow as peers, while also offering supports that meet individual needs.