Head Start

MOC’s Head Start is a comprehensive center-based and family child care home-based preschool program which provides activities to assist children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Classrooms are located throughout the Montachusett region and services are available to children ages three to five years from income eligible families. Head Start parents are offered a variety of training opportunities and self-enrichment programs to promote development of leadership skills and a sense of belonging.

Head Start can be combined with child care services to create a full day program, allowing parents to seek or continue employment without compromising the health, safety, and development of their children.

Family Child Care Homes

MOC contracts with licensed family child care providers in Leominster, Fitchburg, Gardner, Winchendon, and to provide safe, supervised, nurturing settings for infants through school age children. Through family child care homes, children have the opportunity to interact with a small group of peers within a supportive and stimulating environment. MOC provides participating family child care homes with resources and supports such as training, technical assistance, consultation, monitoring, and referrals to health and social service agencies for the children in their care.

Toddler Programs

Center-base infant and toddler care is provided in Leominster for children ages 12 to 33 months. The classroom environment is safe and interesting for children. The curriculum is responsive to individual children’s needs, interests, and developmental abilities. A small group of consistent educators provides continuity of care giving.

School Age Program

MOC’s School Age Program provides before and/or after school center-base care in Gardner. Children enrolled in kindergarten through 12 years of age are transported between the center and Gardner Public Schools by bus. Recreational and educational activities are provided at the center to support children’s overall educational and life skills and assistance with homework is provided, as needed.