Head Start and Preschool Promise offer free, high-quality preschool and child care for eligible families.
Over 40 providers offer these programs in Lane County. The chart below shows what each program offers and how to apply. Once you’ve settled on a program, explore the Preschool Finder to find a classroom near you.
Head Start
For expectant parents and children 0-5 years old
Head Start and Early Head Start provide free early childhood education — part day and full day — and family support services for expectant families and children. Services include home visits, health and dental screenings, nutrition support, social-emotional development, and high-quality early learning programs. Apply Now
Preschool Promise
For children 3-4 years old (on Sept 1st)
Preschool Promise offers free, high-quality preschool at public school, child care center and home-based locations. Preschool classrooms are culturally responsive and offer wrap-around care options. Apply Now
Head Start & Preschool Promise Program Comparison
| Program feature | Head Start | Preschool Promise |
|---|---|---|
| Ages If your child turns 5 after September 1, they are eligible. | Prenatal to 5 years old (Home-based care for 0-12 months) |
3-4 years old |
| Pregnancy Support Parenting education for expecting families, resources & referrals and individualized pregnancy support. |  |
 |
| Free Meals & Supplies | |
|
| Length of Day Additional child care hours may be paid through Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) and/or out of pocket. | Up to 6.5 hours per day. Additional childcare hours (up to 10 hours per day) may be available, depending on the individual program site. |
Up to 6 hours per day. Additional childcare hours may be available, depending on the individual program site. |
| Settings | ||
| Public School | |
|
| Center | |
|
| In-Home | |
|
| Year-Round Programs | Early Head Start (ages 0-3) and Head Start Full Day (ages 3-5) programs offer services and care all year long. |
Some preschools offer care all year long. Care offered during the summer is not covered by the Preschool Promise program. Summer childcare hours may be paid through Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) and/or out of pocket. |
| Classroom Size | 16 children or fewer 1 teacher for every 8-9 students |
18 children or fewer 1 teacher for every 10 students |
| Developmental Support | ||
| Works with Early Childhood CARES | |
|
| Home visits | |
|
| Health screenings | |
|
| Spanish Interpretation Support Spanish interpretation available in person or by phone as needed. | |
|
| Address Eligibility | Live in Lane County |
Live in Oregon |
| Program Eligibility If already enrolled in one of these programs, you are income eligible. | ||
| TANF | |
|
| SSI | |
|
| SNAP | |
|
| ERDC | |
|
| WIC | |
|
| OHP | |
|
| Circumstances Eligibility If any of these circumstances apply, you are income eligible. | |
|
| Child is in foster care | |
|
| Affiliation with federally recognized tribe | |
|
| Income Eligibility | Families at or below 100% of the federal poverty level qualify. More About Income EligibilityFamilies with higher incomes may still be accepted into the program if spots are available. Families over the income limit are encouraged to apply. |
Families at or below 200% of the federal poverty level qualify. More About Income EligibilityFamilies who spend more than 30% of their income on housing costs may be eligible for an income adjustment. |
| Housing Hardship | Families who are experiencing homelessness are automatically eligible. |
Families who are experiencing homelessness are automatically eligible and will receive priority level 5 in the lottery. Families whose housing cost exceeds 30% of income may be eligible for an income adjustment. |
| Application Process | Staff will conduct an eligibility interview and help you complete the application. Apply to Head StartSpots are filled as they become available. |
Spots filled through a lottery system. Apply to Preschool Promise |
Which provider Is right for you?
Every preschool and child care provider is unique, even within the same program. Some offer Spanish-speaking staff, transportation, and other support services. Browse our Preschool Finder to find the best fit for your child and family.
Looking for Other
Child Care Options?
If your family does not qualify for free preschool or child care through Head Start or Preschool Promise, you can still find great care in Lane County. Many programs accept Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) to help cover costs.
Questions to ask when looking for child care
Asking the right questions when looking for preschool or child care ensures you find the best fit for your family. Use this guide to help you choose the right provider.
Beyond child care, we’re here to help your child get ready for kindergarten and build a strong start for school.
GET READING SUPPORT
Reading at Every Age
When you read to your child and have books at home, you help your child succeed in school!
GET READY FOR KINDERGARTEN
Kids in Transition to School (KITS)
Kids in Transition to School (KITS) is free and helps kids and families get ready to start kindergarten! Kids ages 4-6 meet in person with virtual and in person options for parents.
Need HELP?
Our enrollment team is
here to support you!
We can help you review your options and eligibility, fill out your application, or provide a paper copy if needed. Spanish-English assistance is available.
Call
(541) 741-6000, ext. 201, in English & Spanish
Hours 9am – 4pm, Monday – Friday
In-person help is offered by appointment
Preschool Promise is housed at the United Way of Lane County office:
3171 Gateway Loop
Springfield, OR 97477
Fax
541-726-4150
