Head Start
Head Start gives children ages 3–5 a strong start in a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment.
At Step Forward, we help children build confidence, prepare for kindergarten, and develop a love of learning through hands-on experiences, play-based learning, individualized support, and caring teachers who partner with families every step of the way. Enroll below, or call (216) 589-9922.
Step Forward’s Head Start program is offered through a network of high-quality early learning centers and community partnerships across Cuyahoga County.
Together, these locations help more children and families access the support, education, and resources that prepare children for success in school and beyond.
Step Forward Centers
Step Forward directly operates Head Start centers across Cuyahoga County, all of which are rated high-quality through the State of Ohio’s Step Up To Quality initiative. These ratings recognize excellence in curriculum, kindergarten readiness, learning environments, and teacher engagement.
Several Step Forward locations are also PRE4CLE partners and Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) sites funded by Invest in Children.
Community Partnership Locations
In addition to Step Forward-operated centers, Head Start services are also available through dozens of trusted childcare centers and school district partners across Cuyahoga County.
These partnerships expand access to high-quality early childhood education and help more children and families benefit from the Head Start experience and the support it provides.
Early Head Start
Step Forward’s Early Head Start program supports pregnant women, infants, and toddlers up to age three by providing prenatal care, nutritional guidance, and childbirth education.
After birth, children learn in safe, welcoming classrooms with age-appropriate materials, caring staff, and provided essentials like diapers and formula.
Throughout every stage, trained staff partner with families to build a strong foundation for lifelong success.
Family Engagement & Volunteering
At Step Forward, families are an important part of every child’s learning journey! We believe children thrive when parents and caregivers are actively involved both in the classroom and at home.
Each family is connected with a Family Service Worker who provides ongoing support, helps identify needs, and connects families to helpful programs and resources along the way.
We encourage parents and family members to take an active role in the Head Start experience through volunteering, classroom activities, field trips, parent committees, and leadership groups.
Whether reading to children in the classroom or helping shape program decisions, every contribution makes a difference.
Throughout the year, Step Forward also hosts family engagement events that bring families together for learning, connection, and fun.
We also offer engagement opportunities, educational resources, and support specifically for fathers and father figures.