Child in a playground

Chicago dept. of family & support services

children services division

The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) Children Services Division (CSD) is dedicated to strengthening the lives of Chicago Children, Families, and Communities.

We manage Chicago Early Learning (CEL) programs, including Head Start, Early Head Start, Preschool For All (PFA), and Prevention Initiative (PI) throughout Chicago particularly those most in need from birth to five years of age.

CSD Updates

Get the latest CSD-related news and updated resources here.

Chicago Early Learning Applications Open April 8!

Explore options in your neighborhood and across Chicago to find the right program for your early learner. Use our location search tool to find a high quality early learning program near you. Community-Based Preschool and Early Learning Programs, which includes Early Head Start, Infant-Toddler programs, Home-Visiting Programs, and Doula Programs.

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Know Your Rights Resource Guide

The Mayor’s Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights (IMMR) is proud to share the Know Your Rights Resource Guide—a comprehensive tool to help protect and empower our communities.

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CSD CARES Service Now Ticketing Guide

Agency Staff Only: If you are having trouble with CSD CARES and need support, please make sure you submit a ticket directly through the system. Included are steps on how agencies can submit a support ticket when needed.

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content areas

Each Head Start content area is a building block that ensures the highest level of quality in every Head Start classroom across the city. Find the latest regulation updates, trainings, resources and more.

Safety Practices

Transportation

Family & Community Engagement

Nutrition

Mental Health

Health

Data Management

Education

Disabilities

ERSEA

Program Management & Quality Improvement

Collaborative Governance