The UAB Early Head Start Program is a family focused child development program created to serve children and families in Jefferson, Walker, and St. Clair Counties in the state of Alabama. (In Jefferson and St. Clair Counties, we are a HOME BASED program; visiting you and your child in your home. We do NOT provide child care in Jefferson and St. Clair Counties.)
The mission of the UAB Early Head Start Program is to form partnerships with families to support child development and family goals. Through continuous staff development and in collaboration with the community, we strive to enhance opportunities for families.
We form partnerships with families and offer:
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weekly home based early childhood education
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case management services
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mental health support services
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health and nutritional support services
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socialization activities
We can assist families in identifying and obtaining other community resources such as:
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adult education services
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vocational training
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child care services
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parent training
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substance abuse services
We can do no great things,
only small things with great love.
Mother Teresa
Why we invest in the first years? Watch this youtube video to see what kids say.
What Does Home-Based Mean?
The basic philosophy of our Home-Based Program is that children's parent(s) or guardians are their first and best teachers. Therefore, our program's goal is to support your role as a parent or guardian.
That's why, in the Home-Based Program, our focus is primarily on you, the parent(s) or guardians. You are the primary person(s) influencing your child's development, therefore, your home is the main place where Early Head Start activities take place. As a participant in our program, you will have a Family Partner who will visit you in your home once a week for about an hour and a half, at a regularly scheduled day and time. During these visits, your Family Partner will work with you to develop goals to meet any needs your family may have. In addition, you will learn activities to use with your child(ren) to foster skills that help them get ready to read, promote language development and physical growth as well as problem-solving skills, a positive self-image and a sense of self-worth. Your Family Partner will also provide information about good health and safety practices.
Note: Home visits are only conducted with parents or guardians, not babysitters or temporary caregivers.
You can follow us on Facebook here and Download a printable brochure. (Spanish version)
UAB Early Head Start Program . 933 19th Street South . Birmingham, AL 35294
205-934-5736