CARD Head Start & Early Head Start

04/17/2026

We are incredibly proud to see one of our Wagoner Centers parent representing our community on a national stage 💜

Her journey is a powerful reminder of how far families can go with support, determination, and opportunity. We are honored to have been part of her story and to witness the growth, strength, and confidence she’s gained along the way.

This is what Head Start is all about- empowering families, uplifting communities, and creating lasting impact for children and their futures.

“Head Start has truly changed our lives in ways I never expected...I’ve been able to see firsthand what a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment can do for a child’s growth and confidence.” - Storm Koch, Oklahoma

Starting next week, parents from across the country will begin arriving in Washington, D.C. for Parents Unite, bringing stories like this directly to Capitol Hill. This movement is powered by lived experience – parents speaking for themselves about what Head Start means for their children, their families, and their futures.

Parents Unite is about showing up, being heard, and making sure lawmakers in Washington, D.C. understand what is at stake. It's about turning real stories into real impact.

There is still time to stand with parents across the country and be part of this collective voice. Add your story, stay connected, and take part in the movement shaping the future of Head Start. Learn more: https://hubs.la/Q04czKgQ0

04/16/2026

Over time, toxic stress can affect the brain development of infants and toddlers and increase the risk of long-term health challenges, including heart disease, mental health problems and learning difficulties.

The strongest buffer for a baby is a stable, nurturing relationship. But caregivers need support to make that possible.

Learn what we can do to protect the long-term health and development of young children: https://bit.ly/4brlLm8

04/09/2026

Calm is not something others can give on command.

It is something we create through our own presence.
When we choose steadiness, we make it easier for everyone around us to feel it too.

04/04/2026

Sensory activities help build the foundation for school readiness by supporting brain development, motor skills, language, and social skills. In Early Head Start, even simple activities like scooping, pouring, and exploring textures are helping children learn and grow every day.

03/30/2026

When people (adults and kids alike) feel seen, their brains open up to grow.
What’s one small way you build connection in your day?

03/30/2026

Handwriting isn’t just about hands.
It begins with big movements that build strong shoulders, core, and arms—through climbing, digging, squeezing, and pulling.
A great example is using sidewalk chalk to make large drawings!!

03/26/2026

Research is shifting from a deficit view of trauma to a resilience-based view that emphasizes capacity for recovery and growth.

Positive experiences can help “override” or mitigate the long-term effects of early adversity. Those who had the most positive childhood experiences were 72% less likely to suffer from poor mental health than those who had the fewest, the research found

Dive deeper with us: https://bit.ly/4djNNT3

03/20/2026

Today at Pryor South EHS, we’re celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Day by rocking our crazy socks 💙💛

At CARD, we celebrate every child and the unique strengths they bring into our classrooms. We are proud to create inclusive environments where all children of all abilities feel supported, valued, and loved.

03/18/2026

In the first three years of life, a baby’s brain forms over 1 million new connections every second.

Those connections are built on love, safety, and emotionally nourishing relationships.
This is how babies build trust. How they learn. How they grow.

But that window is short. And not every baby gets what they need in time.

Each baby’s potential is unlimited.
The window to support them is not.

See why belief matters: https://bit.ly/4txHq4n

03/16/2026

Now Enrolling for the 2026–2027 School Year! 🎉🎉🎉

Our Head Start program is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 school year!

Head Start provides children with a strong start through high-quality early childhood education, social and emotional development, and family support services that help children prepare for kindergarten and beyond.

Many families qualify for Head Start services, including children from low-income families, families receiving SNAP, TANF, or SSI, foster children, and families experiencing homelessness.

Why choose Head Start?
• Free 6-hour school day at all centers
• Caring, qualified teachers and engaging classrooms
• Focus on school readiness and social-emotional growth
• Health, nutrition, and family support services
• select center offer extended hours of care (fees apply for extended care only)

How to Apply:
• New families: Apply online at cardheadstart.com
• Families with a household member who has previously applied or attended: Please call your local center to complete the application.

Center locations and phone numbers are listed below.
Broken Arrow Southside-918-258-3464
Bartlesville East-918-335-3000
Wagoner-918-485-2685
Coweta-918-486-6656
Pryor-918-825-4583
Catoosa-918-266-6161
Claremore-918-342-8996

We look forward to welcoming new and returning families to our Head Start community!

03/13/2026

Happy Spring Break! ☀️🌸

Our Head Start classrooms will be closed for Spring Break Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 20.

We hope you enjoy this time with your children - whether that means relaxing, playing outside, or making fun memories together.

Head Start classes will resume Monday, March 23.

Have a safe and wonderful Spring Break!

(Early Head Start will remain open as usual since it operates year-round.)

03/07/2026

When children are very upset, the feeling part of their brain is in charge. When that happens, it is hard for them to listen or think clearly.

When adults help children name their feelings, it helps the brain calm down so they can learn what to do next.

Simple phrases like:
• “I see you're upset.”
• “That looks frustrating.”

help children feel understood and start learning how to manage their emotions.

Social-emotional skills like this help children build friendships, confidence, and school readiness.