Socialization Environments in Head Start and Early Head Start Home-Based Programs

Tip Sheet LogoIntroduction

The home-based option delivers the full range of Head Start services through visits with the child's parents, primarily in the child's home, and through group socialization opportunities in a classroom, community facility, home, or on field trips. Socializations are an important part of delivering Head Start services in the home-based option. And the environment plays an important part in the success of socialization activities. It is important to understand the goals of socializations before creating an effective environment.

Group socializations should:

Strategies

Because young children use their senses to explore the sights, sounds, tastes, and textures of their environments, everything around them becomes a learning tool. Support children's learning goals across domains with carefully selected materials and planned experiences that are aligned with the ELOF and home-based curriculum. When setting up the socialization environment, consider these important elements:

Consider providing some space and activities for older siblings so parents are free to attend to their enrolled child.

Location

Large pillows, low risers, or comfortable chairs that allow parents to be on or near the ground can help facilitate parent-child interaction.

Room Arrangement

Snacks and Meals

Parents with kids sitting in a circle reading a bookAge-related Ideas for Setting Up Socialization Environments