Here at Horizons, we close the learning and developmental gap for young children experiencing homelessness. Early childhood education creates lifelong effects, both for individual children and our society as a whole. Research shows that early education is critically important; children who lack access to these programs are far more likely to experience developmental delays, learning disabilities, health problems, and other challenges.
Through our state-of-the-art early education center located in Roxbury we provide access to a stimulating and nurturing early education experience that incorporates trauma-informed practices and culturally responsive care. Our program produces happy, confident children who are poised for success and able to keep pace with their peers. Watch our virtual tour below:
Our early education center operates year-round and serves 265 children aged 2 months to five years. Every one of our 24 classrooms has a bilingual teacher and support staff that is specially trained to address the unique circumstances children experiencing homelessness face. While in our program, special attention is given to every child’s physical and social-emotional growth in ways that acknowledge and counteract the damaging effects of homelessness. All of Horizons’ educators are trained in Horizons’ core curricula that supports early relational health, social emotional learning, and collaboration amongst teachers and caregivers.
Horizons uses a two-generation model that addresses both the needs of the child and their parent. While the children are in the classroom, Horizons’ Family Coaching Specialists work closely with parents to support identification and achievement of parental goals which may include financial literacy, educational opportunities, language mastery, job training, and more.
Our programs are fully accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) which rates Horizons among the top 10% of early education programs in the country. Our curriculum is further strengthened by enrichment activities in topics ranging from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) disciplines to art and music.
Through our Next School Initiative in our Family Partnership Program, we maintain partnerships with the Boston Public Schools and local Catholic schools to facilitate kindergarten placements when kids transition out of our program.
If you’re interested in becoming a classroom volunteer, we have a limited need in our early education center. The requirement is two hours each week for six months. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer please contact Lynne Gaines.
