Washington County Head Start / Early Head Start and Child Care Programs, New York

Children with disabilities participate in the full range of activities provided for all children in our Head Start/Early Head Start program. In order to receive related services: speech therapy, occupational therapy or physical therapy, each qualified child will have a complete assessment by an evaluator approved by NYS Department of Education.

One it has been determined that a child is eligible, additional assistance and services is provided in the classroom or at another location within the center. Younger children, birth to three, generally have services provided at home. This enables greater parent involvement and follow up with services.

Head Start is a supportive environment where adults with disabilities are welcomed. Members of the community have the opportunity to spend time in the classrooms reading and interacting with children.

In addition to therapy, eligible children are supported to be successful through the efforts of an Inclusion Aide. Inclusion Aide’s work with individual children to provide constant reinforcement for positive behaviors, verbally guide interactions that support the child’s interests, and help the child gain greater independence.