Preschool/Child Care (Ages 0-5)

Preschool and child care support early education and working parents.

Typical Ages

• Early Head Start: Ages 0-3.
• Head Start/Preschool: Ages 3-5.
• Child Care: Ages 0-5.

Mandatory Attendance

• Not required.
• Link: Early education info at U.S. Department of Education: https://www.ed.gov/early-learning.

Step-by-Step Guide

• Understand Options:
  • Head Start: Free for refugees, ages 3-5.
  • Early Head Start: Ages 0-3.
  • Child Care: Licensed centers or home providers.
• Contact Your Resettlement Agency:
  • Ask about Head Start or child care subsidies via ORR’s Refugee Cash Assistance.
  • Link: ORR Affiliate Directory: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/orr/state-programs-annual-overview.
• Equivalency Check for Prior Education:
  • Not applicable; providers assess developmental milestones.
• Vaccination Requirements:
  • Mandatory: DTaP, MMR, Polio for Head Start and licensed child care.
  • Verification: Provide records or get screenings via ORR clinics.
  • Exceptions: Medical, religious, temporary waivers (30-90 days).
  • Link: Requirements at CDC Childcare Vaccination: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/by-age.html.
• Gather Documents:
  • Proof of identity, residency, income (RCA records).
  • Affidavits may be accepted.
• Enroll Your Child:
  • Apply for Head Start or contact child care providers.
  • Link: Head Start locator at Office of Head Start: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator.
• Access Support:
  • ORR Subsidies: RCA covers child care ($500-$2,000/month).
  • Head Start: Free, includes meals.
  • Link: Child care subsidies at Child Care Aware: https://www.childcareaware.org/.
• Prepare for Program:
  • Supplies: Diapers, clothes, backpack.
  • Cost: $50-$200/year; child care subsidized.
  • Transportation: $50-$100/month if not provided.

Key Notes

• Cost: Head Start free; child care $500-$2,000/month (subsidized).
• Challenges: Limited spots and language barriers.
• Contact: Head Start or resettlement agency.