Early Head Start in Miami at Lincoln-Martí is a free, bilingual program for infants and toddlers ages 0–3, giving Miami-Dade families a safe, nurturing start from the very first months.
Early Head Start is a free, federally funded program that provides early education, health and developmental screenings, and family support for pregnant women and children from birth to age 3 in income-eligible families. Lincoln-Martí offers Early Head Start at select Miami campuses, with bilingual care that prepares infants and toddlers for preschool. Eligibility is based on federal income guidelines, and priority goes to families with the greatest need. For many qualifying families, Early Head Start means high-quality infant and toddler care at no cost — a rare and valuable option in Miami-Dade.
Our Early Head Start program in Miami gives infants and toddlers a safe, nurturing, bilingual start — fully free for income-eligible families.
What is Early Head Start?
Early Head Start (EHS) is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It provides comprehensive child development services — including education, nutrition, health screenings, and family support — for infants, toddlers, and pregnant women in low-income families. Lincoln-Martí is a federally approved Early Head Start provider, offering bilingual (English/Spanish) care that gives children from birth to age 3 the foundation they need for school success.
Who qualifies for Early Head Start in Miami?
Eligibility is based on federal income poverty guidelines. Priority goes to families with incomes at or below 100% of the federal poverty level. Children and pregnant women who meet the income threshold qualify; families experiencing homelessness or receiving TANF/SSI also receive priority. A small percentage of enrollment slots are available for children with disabilities regardless of income.
What does Early Head Start include?
- Early education: structured, developmentally appropriate daily learning in English and Spanish
- Health screenings: vision, hearing, developmental milestones, and nutrition assessments
- Nutrition: healthy meals and snacks provided during program hours
- Family support: home visits, parenting resources, and referrals to social services
- Continuity: children who age out of EHS (at age 3) are transitioned into the Head Start or VPK program
Which campuses offer Early Head Start?
Lincoln-Martí offers Early Head Start at select campuses in Miami-Dade, including SW 1st Street, SW 16th Ave, and Palmetto Bay (SW 168th St). Please contact us at (305) 642-1000 or visit our registration page to confirm which campus has current EHS openings — availability varies by term. Early Head Start slots fill quickly.
How to apply for Early Head Start at Lincoln-Martí
- Confirm eligibility: your household income must fall at or below federal poverty guidelines for your family size.
- Gather documents: proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, or benefits letter), child’s birth certificate, proof of Florida residency, and immunization records.
- Contact Lincoln-Martí at (305) 642-1000 or register online to request an Early Head Start application for the campus nearest you.
- Complete enrollment: a Lincoln-Martí staff member will walk you through the application and let you know of any waitlist status.
Frequently Asked Questions — Early Head Start
Is Early Head Start free?
Yes. Early Head Start is fully federally funded and free for eligible families. There is no tuition, registration fee, or cost for the program itself.
What is the difference between Early Head Start and regular daycare?
Regular daycare is a child-care service parents pay for. Early Head Start is a federal program with structured education, health screenings, nutrition, and family support — all at no cost for qualifying families. EHS providers like Lincoln-Martí must meet federal performance standards for child development, making it a high-quality option for income-eligible families.
Which Lincoln-Martí campuses offer Early Head Start?
Early Head Start is available at select Lincoln-Martí campuses including SW 1st Street, SW 16th Ave, and Palmetto Bay. Please call (305) 642-1000 to confirm current availability — EHS slots are limited and may have a waitlist.
How do I know if my family qualifies?
Your family qualifies if your household income is at or below 100% of the federal poverty level, or if you receive TANF or SSI benefits. Families experiencing homelessness also qualify. A small number of slots are reserved for children with disabilities regardless of income. Contact Lincoln-Martí at (305) 642-1000 to verify eligibility before applying.
Why Choose Lincoln-Martí Early Head Start in Miami
- 100% free — Early Head Start is a federally funded program for infants and toddlers, ages 0–3, at no cost to eligible families.
- Bilingual care — English and Spanish from the very first months.
- Full-day, year-round — open 6:00 AM–7:00 PM for working parents.
- Health and development — screenings, meals, and family support built into Early Head Start.
- Seamless path — continue into free VPK and K-12 at Lincoln-Martí.
- Trusted since 1968 — caring, experienced staff across Miami-Dade.
Early Head Start — Frequently Asked Questions
Is Early Head Start free?
Yes. Early Head Start is a free, federally funded program for income-eligible families with infants and toddlers ages 0–3. Learn more about the program from the federal Office of Head Start.
What ages does Early Head Start serve?
Early Head Start serves infants and toddlers from birth to age 3; at 3, children can continue into Head Start or free VPK at age 4.
How do I apply for Early Head Start in Miami?
Contact Lincoln-Martí at (305) 642-1000 to check eligibility and enroll. Bring a birth certificate, immunization record, and proof of income and residence.
Find a Lincoln-Martí Campus Near You
With 26+ campuses across Miami-Dade, there is a Lincoln-Martí daycare, VPK, and K-12 school near you. See all campus locations or choose your neighborhood: