Chapter 2 Types of Early Childhood Programs Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 31 match blocks with like textures. Musical bells with varying tones are used in the same way. Children match bells that have like tones. Academics are also stressed in the Montessori program. Before children are introduced to these experiences, however, they must usually master sensory training. Then, to teach letter recognition, sandpaper letters are used. After the teacher introduces a letter, children are encouraged to trace the letter with their fi ngertips. Numbers are taught in the same manner. When a child demonstrates knowledge of and interest in letters, he or she may begin reading instruction. Artistic or cultural experiences are planned in addition to daily living exercises, sensory training, and academics. Children are exposed to artistic materials to learn about color and line. By playing with instruments and dancing, they learn music appreciation. Head Start In the 1960s, the federal government designed a program to overcome the negative effects of poverty on young children. Head Start is a comprehensive child development program that provides a variety of medical and social services to promote healthy development for children in low-income families. Educational, nutritional, health, medical, dental, social, mental health, and other services are provided. Head Start mainly provided services for three- to fi ve-year-olds from low-income families. Later it added the Early Head Start program, which promoted prenatal outcomes and healthy families. The program was expanded to include infants and toddlers. Head Start began serving homeless children in 2007. Homeless children are those children who lack a regular, fi xed, or nighttime residence. It includes children living in cars, motels, or shelters due to economic hardship. Head Start also is required to provide services to the older and younger siblings of homeless children. Educational requirements for Head Start teachers have changed. As of 2013, Head Start teachers must have a minimum of an associate’s degree. Many also have bachelor’s degrees. Education The curriculum in a Head Start program is designed to meet the needs of each child. One goal is to build self-esteem that will lead to future success in school. Staff encourage self-confi dence, curiosity, and self-discipline. A variety of learning experiences are designed to meet the children’s needs in all four areas of development. Staff and the child’s entire family work as a team to plan curriculum and teach children. Parent involvement is the heart of the program. Nutrition Many children who take part in Head Start do not receive nutritious meals at home. Providing nutrition services is a vital part of the program (Figure 2.4). Federal rules require the center to provide at least one snack and one hot meal every day. The nutrition program serves foods that refl ect the child’s ethnic and cultural preferences. The goal is to help children make healthful food choices and develop good eating habits. Figure 2.4 A well-organized, sanitary kitchen is an important link in providing sound nutrition for children.