Beacon of Hope examines the Early Head Start Program, beginning with a description of the program today and the findings of a 5-year evaluation. The authors also explain the inner workings of the program, highlighting its strategies to provide services to pregnant women, infants, and toddlers; to reach out to fathers and teen parents; to meet the mental health needs of children and families; and to effectively include children with special needs. Emerging policy issues are also examined, including the need for increased federal and state investments to expand the program and ensure continuous improvement. --- from the publisher |