Head Start Orientation Basics

Head Start Orientation is a one-hour long course that provides critical information required to work or volunteer in Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms. The course covers core topics to support children’s well-being and school-readiness skills. Head Start Orientation helps programs quickly expand their temporary staffing capacity by preparing new substitutes and volunteers to have high-impact interactions with children.

In addition to providing an introduction to Head Start policies, procedures, and guidelines, Head Start Orientation prepares learners to successfully implement positive strategies such as active supervision and positive redirection.

This course is a great first step for individuals who are seeking long-term placements or increasing their involvement. This course is recommended to be paired with Head Start Basics.

Start Date: On-Demand

Course Level: Beginner

Requirements/Prerequisites: None

Target Audience: Instruction and Effective Practice, Parents and Families

Course Meeting Times: None

Completion Timeline/Duration: One Month

Head Start Alignment:

• Supports programs in meeting Part 1302: Program Operations, Subpart I-Human Resources Management requirements of the Head Start Program Performance Standards to ensure staff and volunteers are qualified and supported to effectively provide services.
• Supports programs in meeting Part 1303.4: Federal Financial Assistance, Non-Federal Match, and Waiver requirements in which “a grantee must contribute 20 percent as non-federal match each budget period.” Volunteer time can be calculated into dollar amounts.