The first three years of a child’s life are a critical time for establishing a strong foundation of cognitive, physical, and social and emotional development. Therefore, CPCD offers the Early Head Start (EHS) combined with our Family Literacy program for children, birth to age three, and their families, as well as expectant parents.

Jaime's Story

The first years of Jaime's life have been filled with a mix of sadness and tears and hope and joy. Although earlier symptoms were present, Jaime, who is legally blind, was offically diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a chronic condition that affects body movements and muscle coordination. As a baby, Jaime's doctors said he would never walk, talk or crawl. He wouldn't live more than 12 months.

At the time, Jaime's sister was enrolled in Head Start. The classroom teacher recognized the family was distressed and needed help.  He referred the family to Early Head Start (EHS). The staff moved quickly to help connect the family to resources in the community.  They also took time to personally speak with the parents about their problems and concerns.

Now, Jaime is three. He received speech, physical and occupational therapy. The therapists demonstrate special exercises and handling techniques to Jaime's parents for them to practice at home. At EHS, Jamie loves circle time to hear everyone sing, tell stories and play games.

EHS also assists families who are expecting a baby by providing workshops and information on pregnancy, child birth, and newborn care. Soon-to-be parents can also participate in group activities to help form relationships with other parents.  EHS services can also be accessed with Family Literacy efforts as parents work toward their GED or take ESL classes.

CPCD serves the youngest children and their families in Early Head Start in area classrooms and through partnerships with the Tesla Early Learning Center in School District 11, Family Literacy Program, Colorado Springs Child Nursery Centers, Inc., and in family child care homes through the Home Network.