Learning from Head Start

This book will help you understand why Head Start has had such a profound impact on the lives of thousands of children. It is such an integral piece of the early childhood education policy and practice puzzle. -- Paula Jorde Bloom, Ph.D., Michael W. Louis Endowed Chair, McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership, Wheeling, IL.
I taught Head Start that first summer of 1965 in a half-day program in the Mission District of San Francisco where most of the families were Spanish-speaking. We all had great hopes for the benefits of the program. Now nearly fifty years later, we know not only that the children can benefit enormously from a year-round program, but when its quality is really good, the children continue to benefit right through their secondary school years. The book addresses all the main topics for those of us involved in Head Start and it can also serve as a rich basis for staff discussion and parent involvement as well. -- Lilian G. Katz, Ph.D.,Professor Emerita & Clearinghouse on Early Education and Parenting, University of Illinois
Gilford offers a deeply informative, hands-on view of Head Start. This book links processes and outcomes that are so very critical for our young children and their families by addressing a myriad of challenges of meeting regulations, parent concerns, and, most importantly, the needs of precious, often energetic little ones. Combining research and best practices with practical tips, this book is a must-read for Head Start staff and others engaged with early childhood teaching and learning. -- Randy S. Heinrich, DM, co-author of Do Children Drop Out in Kindergarten?
Without a doubt Sidney Gilford [and his contributing authors have] a clear knowledge of this topic. What impresses me most is [their] ability to clearly articulate each chapter in a manner that is in-depth, pedantic, yet down to earth. This is a must read for any professional in the educational field. -- Greg Hickman, co-author of Do Children Drop out of Kindergarten?
Gilford provides us with a resource for all involved with the early childhood education of children. It is a must read for teachers, administrators, and parents alike to better understand the contributions made by Head Start programs, and as a reminder of the complexities of the needs of young children - particularly those children most at risk. -- Dr. Betsy Gunzelmann, professor of psychology, Southern New Hampshire University and author of Hidden Dangers to Kids' Learning
Sidney Gilford's book is absolutely delightful and refreshing, as he provides readers with an overview of the original Head Start and its current best practices for early childhood, preschool teachers, home visitors, interns, and volunteers. As we all strive to help every child feel safe and secure, Sidney and his child education experts remind us why this program has been so successful, with a total enrollment of over 25 million children. This should be a must read in every college education course and every family library! -- Rosemary S. Callard-Szulgit, EdD,University at Buffalo; author, "Perfectionism and Gifted Children"
This book, intended for early childhood practitioners, is designed to share the knowledge and experiences of what had been learned from Head Start programs that have successfully been in operation for nearly half a century. Addressing common concerns from a range of perspectives, this guide will help to ensure that developmentally appropriate practices are in place to support the diversity of learners found in today's classrooms and that parents and guardians are engaged in their children's education early on. -- Eileen Santiago, Ed.D., co-author of Whole Child, Whole School: Applying Theory to Practice in a Community School