Early Childhood Education
For nearly 60 years, Early Childhood Education (ECE) has been at the heart of our work, primarily through Head Start and Early Head Start funding. Our programs support children from birth to age five — and their families — with a wide range of services that go beyond the classroom.
What We Offer:
- Preschool and Infant-Toddler Classrooms
Nurturing, play-based learning environments where children grow academically, socially, and emotionally. - Home Visiting for Pregnant and New Parents
Personalized, in-home support for families in their earliest stages of parenthood.
Parent & Caregiver Cohorts through Thriving Families
Groups that foster learning, community connection, and long-term support.
About Head Start & Early Head Start
Head Start and Early Head Start are completely free for eligible families (when spots are available) and include wrap-around support services that reflect our Whole Family Approach.
These federally funded programs:
- Serve children from birth to age 5
- Support early learning, health, and family well-being
- Engage parents as key partners in their child’s growth
- Maintain the highest national standards for quality and staff-to-child ratios
Our dedicated Family Outreach Workers help families access:
- Financial stability and workforce support
- Resource navigation and public benefits
- Parent education and leadership opportunities
With nearly 60 years of national data, Head Start has proven to help disrupt generational poverty by giving children a strong start and families the tools to thrive.
Access to affordable, high-quality early childhood care is life-changing — not just for children, but for entire families.
Without reliable child care, parents often struggle to find and keep work, meet basic needs, or invest in their child’s development. ECE is one of the five core areas of our Whole Family Approach, and it’s foundational to breaking cycles of poverty and building stability.
In Sonoma County, child care is limited, but families can access support through our partners:
- 4Cs of Sonoma County – the main Resource & Referral (R&R) hub for most of the region
- River to Coast Children’s Services – provides R&R support for West County
- Local schools and state-subsidized programs also offer child care assistance
Sonoma CAN actively works with local and countywide partners to improve the availability and quality of child care in our region. We’re proud members of:
- Child Care Planning Council
- First 5 Leadership Roundtable
- Our Kids Our Future / Measure I Initiative
Together, we’re working to expand access and improve outcomes for children and families.
Ready to explore our Preschool or Infant-Toddler programs?
Find out about eligibility requirements below.
Have questions? Call our application line (707) 535-3386 or visit our main office.
Eligibility Requirements
Preschool
Our preschool programs are funded by the Office of Head Start, serving children ages 3-5.
Infant & Toddler
Our infant Toddler programs are primarily funded by Early Head Start funding and serve prenatal to age 3.
