Chinle, AZ

Chinle Head Start Center is a highly regarded federally funded program offering comprehensive early childhood education focused on school readiness. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional development through play-based learning and culturally relevant activities rooted in Navajo traditions. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in child development and bilingual education (English and Navajo). The facility features secure classrooms, outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal services. Safety protocols include regular drills, background-checked staff, and parent involvement programs. It stands out for its strong community ties, individualized learning plans, and support for families through workshops and resources.

Located at Diné College in Tsaile, this center serves the wider Chinle area with a research-based curriculum that integrates Navajo culture and language. It offers age-appropriate programs from infancy through preschool, focusing on cognitive, physical, and emotional development through hands-on activities and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) initiatives. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low child-to-staff ratios for personalized attention. The facility includes modern classrooms, safe outdoor playgrounds, and health-focused meal plans. Highlights include parent-teacher collaborations, developmental assessments, and flexible scheduling to support working families in the Navajo Nation.

Many Farms Head Start Center provides high-quality early education with a focus on holistic child development and cultural preservation. The program uses a structured curriculum that promotes literacy, numeracy, and social skills through interactive learning centers and community-based projects. Qualified staff include certified early childhood educators and family advocates who offer support services like health screenings and nutrition education. The center features secure, clean facilities with indoor and outdoor play spaces, and emphasizes safety through monitored access and emergency preparedness. It is praised for its inclusive environment, strong parent partnerships, and commitment to fostering Navajo values and language in daily activities.