Empowering Northern Kentuckys Youngest Learners: The Heart of NKCAC’s Children’s Services
Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission (NKCAC) has long been a cornerstone for families seeking support, education, and empowerment. Across Boone, Campbell, Kenton, and Pendleton counties, NKCAC connects people and communities—urban and rural, young and old—so that everyone has the opportunity to not only survive but thrive.
Among its many impactful programs, Children’s Services stands out as one of the most transformative. Through Head Start, Early Head Start, Community Collaboration for Children, and the Foster Grandparent Program, NKCAC prepares children for a lifetime of educational success while strengthening family bonds and community foundations.
Whether you’re a parent seeking high-quality early education, a volunteer hoping to make a difference, or a community member looking to support the next generation of Northern Kentuckians, NKCAC’s Children’s Services have something for you.
Laying the Foundation for Lifelong Learning
From the moment a child enters an NKCAC Early Childhood Center, they enter a world specifically designed to nurture confidence, curiosity, and care.
Each center provides professional, affordable pre-kindergarten education that meets every child’s unique needs. NKCAC’s classrooms maintain four- and five-star ratings through the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s STARS for KIDS NOW Program, showcasing the organization’s commitment to excellence.
These programs go beyond traditional learning—they support the whole child:
- Comprehensive screenings ensure each child’s health and growth are on track. This includes hearing, vision, and dental assessments; physical and motor skills evaluations; and speech, language, and literacy assessments.
- The Brigance Assessment helps teachers tailor individualized educational plans, assessing each child at the beginning and end of the school year to track progress and personal growth.
✨ These holistic tools ensure no child is left behind—academically, physically, or emotionally.
Learn more or apply for Head Start today by visiting the Children’s Services page.
The Power of Early Head Start: Support from Cradle to Classroom
Early Head Start extends NKCAC’s mission to families with children from birth to age three, as well as expectant mothers. These are the most crucial developmental years, and timely support can make a lifelong difference.
Through home-based visits and center-based programs, Early Head Start provides:
- Parenting education and family goal-setting
- Health and nutrition guidance
- Early cognitive and social-emotional development support
- Referrals for healthcare and specialized services
NKCAC works hand-in-hand with parents, empowering them to be their child’s first and most important teacher.
Community Collaboration for Children: Healing and Hope
Families sometimes face challenges that can strain relationships or affect a child’s stability. That’s where NKCAC’s Community Collaboration for Children (CCC) steps in.
CCC helps families build strength, communication, and resilience through:
- Family team meetings that bring loved ones together in a safe, facilitated space
- Supportive services to address issues like housing, mental health, and parenting challenges
- Skill-building workshops to promote self-sufficiency
The goal? Keeping families safe, unified, and thriving within their communities.
Discover how CCC can support your family through the Program Overview.
Foster Grandparent: Love Spans Generations
Imagine pairing the wisdom of experience with the joy and energy of childhood learning. The Foster Grandparent Program does exactly that—pairing senior citizens with children who need extra love and support in educational settings.
Through this meaningful engagement, seniors provide one-on-one attention to children in Head Start classrooms and local schools, fostering literacy, patience, and confidence. This program offers older adults the opportunity to serve purposefully, stay active, and build cherished intergenerational bonds.
If you or someone you know is over 55 and wants to make a difference, learn more about volunteering by visiting NKCAC’s Support Page.
Why Children’s Services Matter for Northern Kentucky’s Future
According to early childhood experts, 90% of brain development happens before age five. Programs like Head Start and Early Head Start aren’t just daycare—they’re launchpads for success.
For families across Northern Kentucky, NKCAC bridges the gap between education and empowerment, ensuring that no matter your income or background, your child has access to the tools and support they need to build a bright future.
And because NKCAC’s programs are connected to broader initiatives like Financial Empowerment, Food Security, and Family Services, families receive a 360-degree network of care—fostering not just well-educated children, but thriving communities.
Explore all NKCAC Services to see how interconnected support can transform lives.
How You Can Help
Your support helps NKCAC keep classrooms running, families supported, and communities strong. Here are a few ways to make a difference:
- Donate directly through the NKCAC donation portal.
- Volunteer your time or expertise.
- Spread awareness by sharing social media posts and upcoming events.
Every dollar and every hour helps shape the future of Northern Kentucky—one child at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between Head Start and Early Head Start?
Head Start serves children ages 3–5 and focuses on school readiness and kindergarten preparation. Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children from birth to age 3, supporting early development and family stability.
2. How can I apply for NKCAC’s Head Start programs?
You can apply online directly at NKCAC Head Start Application or call (859) 581-6607 for assistance. Applications are available in English and Spanish.
3. Is there a cost to enroll in Head Start?
Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded programs—so eligible families can enroll at no cost. Some NKCAC centers also offer additional fee-for-service day care options for convenience and flexibility.
4. Are NKCAC early childhood centers accredited or rated?
Yes! Every NKCAC early education center has earned four or five stars from the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s STARS for KIDS NOW program and adheres to the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS) for excellence.
5. How can I get involved as a volunteer or supporter?
Visit NKCAC’s Support Page to learn how you can volunteer as a Foster Grandparent, mentor, or donor. You can also follow NKCAC on social media to stay updated on news and events.
Building Brighter Futures Starts Here
The path to a stronger Northern Kentucky begins with giving every child an equal chance to learn, grow, and succeed. By participating in or supporting NKCAC Children’s Services, you’re investing in a future where education breaks cycles, families thrive, and communities rise together.
For questions, enrollment, or support:
📞 Call: (859) 581-6607
📧 Email: events@nkcac.org
📍 Visit: 717 Madison Ave, Covington, KY 41011
Learn more about NKCAC’s mission to help Northern Kentuckians achieve self-reliance and educational success by visiting nkcac.org.
Together, we’re not just teaching children—we’re shaping generations of opportunity.