Introduction
The unique characteristics of migrant and seasonal families are important concerns for the Office of Head Start, yet the research and evaluation efforts that address this segment of the Head Start program have been limited. This study was designed to ascertain the state of research knowledge about Migrant and Seasonal Head Start (MSHS) programs, assess the feasibility of a range of measures and research methods, and select and pilot test methods, instruments, and procedures appropriate for this population. The Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Research Development Design Project was the result of the collaboration between MSHS programs and the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) to determine viable methods for assessing the unique characteristics of programs while also examining common programmatic components.