Early Childhood Education
More than 3,600 children under age five in Lincoln live in poverty.
The first five years of life are an important time for growth and learning. During these years, caring relationships, language, and everyday experiences help shape children’s development and readiness for school. Families facing economic hardship often encounter barriers to these early supports.
Community Action offers Early Head Start and Head Start programs for pregnant parents and families with children from birth to age five who are living in Lincoln or broader Lancaster or Saunders Counties and working toward greater stability. Serving the community since 1966, our programs focus on school readiness by supporting children’s development, strengthening family engagement, and partnering with schools.
Is This Program Right for My Family?
Early Head Start or Head Start may be a good fit if you:
have a young child or are expecting
are looking for support during early childhood
want a program that supports your child and your family together
Families in our programs receive support for children’s learning, development, and well‑being, along with guidance and partnership from Educators and Family Engagement staff. Parents and caregivers are supported in strengthening learning at home and their role as their child’s first and most important teacher.
We offer home‑based and center‑based program options to meet families’ needs.
Positive relationships are key to early learning. Through our Foster Grandparent Program, trained older adult volunteers work alongside teachers to support children’s social‑emotional development and help them be ready for kindergarten.
View our most recent Early Head Start and Head Start Annual Report.
Learn more about our programs or find out how to get started.
