Developed to provide assistance in the building of an effective home-based program for Head Start children and their families, this handbook may serve as a blueprint for parent-focused home visits that assist the child and family to meet their special needs. Chapter one focuses on the home visitation model for providing services to families and ways that the Head Start Home-Based Program Option uses and expands on this model. Also addressed are the knowledge base, activities, and attitudes appropriate for the home visitor. Chapter two focuses on screening and assessment in order to determine the needs of the children and families served. Chapter three focuses on planning and evaluating individualized home visits and group socialization activities with parents involved. Chapter four focuses on strategies for home visitors to use as they conduct individualized home visits and group socialization activities with parents and children in various settings. Chapter five discusses how and why home visitors should evaluate home visits and group socialization activities. Two appendices contain suggestions for strengthening the home-based program option, and a home visitor self-assessment guide. (WJC)