Parents are the most important influence in a child's education and development. Research supports the fact that parent involvement is a direct predictor of school success. Head Start places a priority on Parent Involvement because parent are essential to not only the Head Start Program but most importantly the child and family. Parents are empowered to take responsibility for the quality and direction of their child’s educational experiences. Head Start encourages parent involvement through the vast number of activities offered.
Getting involved in the Head Start program provides opportunities for parents to grow, discover, achieve, and gain skills that benefit themselves and their children. Through their involvement, parents also increase their own skills and confidence level which then enable them to better provide for their children's long-term development and education.