HEAD START CENTER DESIGN GUIDE

1.4 Organization of the Guide

Following are brief descriptions of each chapter of this guide.

Chapter 1: Introduction to the Guide. The chapter describes the purpose of the guide, its organization, the intended audience, and how the information can be applied. It also contains a glossary of terms and other documents readers may reference.

Chapter 2: Planning, Standards, and Goals. This chapter discusses the groups and processes that may be involved in planning and designing a Head Start center; standards for design and operations; and the goals and objectives for center design and operation.

Chapter 3: Adults and Children in the Center. This chapter identifies users of the center, the basic needs and activities of each age group, and how these needs and activities affect center design.

Chapter 4: Head Start Centers and Use of Space. This chapter summarizes the Head Start Program Performance Standards relevant to planning, design, and use of space for centers. Should conflict arise between Head Start standards and other applicable codes and regulations, the most restrictive standards will apply.

Chapter 5: Planning Location and Space. This chapter contains criteria for selecting a center location and for planning and programming the space requirements.

Chapter 6: Site Design. This chapter provides concepts and criteria for site design and the design of play yards. It identifies the types of outdoor areas required, discusses the relationships of these areas to other outdoor and indoor spaces, and provides detailed criteria for materials, features, furnishings, and equipment.

Chapter 7: Interior Space Design. The chapter provides concepts and criteria for the design of the interior spaces of a center, including entry and circulation, staff, classroom, common, and service areas.

Chapter 8: Furnishings and Equipment. This chapter provides suggestions regarding furnishings and equipment for a center, and includes references to applicable codes and regulations.

Chapter 9: Interior Finishes. This chapter discusses suggested finishes for centers.

Chapter 10: Technical Criteria. This chapter provides suggested technical criteria for the design and construction of elements and systems in the center.

Appendices. Appendix A lists commonly used terms in the construction industry; Appendix B lists applicable Head Start Program Performance Standards and guidance; Appendix C provides information on metric conversion; and Appendix D lists appropriate plantings for the vicinity of centers serving children.

Selected References. Additional materials for reader reference.