Transition In/Out Early Head Start
Transitioning In: The ERSEA, Family Service Worker, Education Center Coordinator, and Center staff collaborate to ensure a seamless transition for children and parents entering and exiting the PCI Early Head Start and Head Start Programs. We promote family involvement in children's learning and development, fostering lifelong success. Upon entering the Early Head Start program, parents receive an orientation guide outlining program requirements.
Parents are invited and encouraged to spend a day at one of the Early Head Start sites to observe a typical day. This opportunity will make parents feel more involved in their child's learning and development. They attend a briefing conference with the Parent, Teacher, Family Service Worker, and Education Center Coordinator, during which they receive brochures and pamphlets about the program.
Transitioning Out: Six months before the child's third birthday, an Education Center Coordinator and Family Service Worker meet with parents to develop a transition plan for enrolling the child in either a Head Start Program (if slots are available) or other educational programs.
We review a transitioning checklist with parents as a guideline to ensure adherence to the process. The Family Service Worker assists parents in completing the application process for transitioning their child into the Head Start Program or a program they choose. Parents are encouraged to take the child to visit the new center thirty days before exiting the EHS program.
To ensure continuity of care, the Family Service Worker is the liaison between the parent and the Education Center Coordinator of the new Head Start placement. This role is designed to make parents feel supported and cared for during the transition.
Head Start Performance Standards 1302.71 states: The Program Staff is responsible for facilitating the transition process from: Home to Center, EHS to Head Start, and Head Start to Kinder. A smooth transition is important to ensure the most appropriate placement and to ensure Early Childhood Development services are continued.