Preschool and virtual learning options are featured during National Head Start Awareness Month during October, as the Great Lakes Community Action Partnership (GLCAP) highlights the many educational opportunities available through GLCAP’s Early Head Start, Head Start and Home-Based programs.

“We faced an incredible challenge this year due to the pandemic,” said GLCAP Child Development Director Jacquie Wells. “In spring, we had to temporarily close centers and adapt our services to keep families and staff safe while continuing to teach children and assist families through our programs.”

GLCAP provides no-cost preschool for children ages 3-5 through Head Start at its early childhood education centers in Ottawa County. Preschool is also offered in Lucas, Sandusky, Seneca and Wood counties. GLCAP also offers Early Head Start and Head Start services for children ages birth-5 in partnership with child care centers and family child care providers in select counties.

As centers have reopened, the challenge now is to remind parents that early learning opportunities are still available, Wells said.

“It is important for us to let families know that we are still here to help,” Wells said. “Parents who are in need of childcare or preschool for their children should know that GLCAP offers these services at no-cost or minimal cost through Early Head Start and Head Start.”

Parents who prefer a virtual-learning experience for their children can also be served through GLCAP’s Home-Based Program. The program offers one-on-one learning sessions with GLCAP’s home-based coaches, virtual playgroups for children, and other services.

While eligibility guidelines apply for all programs, all families are encouraged to reach out to learn more and discuss education options through GLCAP.

Details are available at www.glcap.org/earlychildhood or by calling 1-800-775-9767 for more information.