In this tip sheet, learn about designing classroom and socialization environments for infants and toddlers. Find tips for buildings, facilities, and learning environments. Explore relevant standards and resources.
Explore the specific regulations in the Head Start Act and the Head Start Program Performance Standards that grantees should consider when they want to purchase, construct, or renovate a facility using Head Start grant funds. Use this facilities guidance resource to support the development and analysis of facilities applications in regard to these regulations.
Head Start leaders must develop systems to address the maintenance needs and repair schedules of their facilities. These systems can have significant budgetary implications and should be approached with the same care one would take with any major purchase. Use this facilities guidance tool to help with data-informed decision-making in implementing sound business practices.
Review the insurance and maintenance regulations, quality health and safety practices, and policies that grantees should establish in their early care and education facilities.
Every facility and/or child care home should hold a valid license, certificate, or documentation of registration prior to operation as required by the local and/or state statute.
Programs should comply with a state-approved or nationally recognized fire prevention code, such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101: Life Safety Code.
It is the responsibility of the grantee to provide for construction inspections and supervision to assure the project is being constructed according to contract documents. Program directors and facilities managers can use this sample file checklist as part of their recordkeeping of the project, which can support future audits.
Learn about procurement procedures, accessibility guidelines, and other design elements grantees should consider when establishing an early care facility.
Learn more about the specific regulations in the Head Start Act and Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) that grantees must comply with when they purchase, construct, or renovate a facility using Head Start grant funds. Use this resource when complying with these regulations.