The stakes are higher than ever for Head Start, child care, and prekindergarten programs as standards and expectations increase and funding sources remain static or decrease. The rationale for Head Start/child care assistance partnerships has evolved over time, but continues to be grounded in reconciling multiple Federal funding streams toward common goals. As more programs face challenges and more families seek high-quality early care and education opportunities for their children, it is essential to understand the differences between the two programs and how they can be administered more collaboratively to achieve the best outcomes for children and families. (author abstract)