Response:

Programs funded to serve pregnant women enroll them into the EHS program but do not enroll pregnant women within a specific program option. It is after the baby is born and ready to begin child development services that EHS enrolls the baby into a specific program option.

The EHS program options are: center-based, home-based, family child care, and combination model. These program options are designed to provide child development services for the child. Therefore, pregnant women are not enrolled within these program options. Many programs choose to provide home visits to participating pregnant women; however, the pregnant women receiving such home visits are not enrolled in a home-based program option. Services designed to meet the needs of the pregnant women are described in the program narrative of the grant application. EHS Tip Sheet No. 40: Does EHS Enroll Pregnant Women Within a Specific Program Option?» [PDF, 50KB]

This Tip Sheet is not a regulatory document. Its intent is to provide a basis for dialogue, clarification, and problem solving among the Office of Head Start, Regional Offices, T & TA consultants, and grantees.