Head Start Health Services Competencies
These tools, for new and experienced staff, address science-informed practices for early childhood health staff. Each is indicative of an attitude, knowledge, or skill. Use this for professional development.
Health and Mental Health Services Staff
Check out these resources for Head Start program staff who manage, oversee, or coordinate health and mental health services. Learn now to carry out requirements and best practices for health and mental health prevention, promotion, early identification, and interventions.
Health Services Advisory Committee
Health Services Advisory Committees (HSACs) help programs to make decisions about health services. Learn how to plan, execute, and evaluate your HSAC.
Infectious Diseases
Explore these resources to find information and tools that staff can use to reduce the risk of infection for children, families, and staff in Head Start programs.
CACFP Meal Services in Head Start Programs
Review these video clips to learn how to implement CACFP, including information about meal patterns, accommodations, how reimbursements are calculated, and creating positive food and eating environments.
Hearing and Vision Screening
Explore this collection of resources to learn about best practices for hearing and vision screening. Discover strategies to use when talking with families about hearing and vision screening procedures as well as follow-up.
Recognizing Trauma and Building Resilience
Learn the definition of trauma and how it impacts young children. Discover how programs can be more trauma-informed.
A Guide to the Dental Periodicity Schedule and Oral Exam
In this guide, learn what a dental periodicity schedule is and the Head Start Program Performance Standards about oral exams.
Head Start Health Services Competencies Modules
Use these tools to develop and strengthen the attitudes, knowledge, and skills health services staff need to effectively support the health, safety, and wellness of young children and their families.
Hazard Mapping for Early Care and Education Programs
Hazard mapping is a process that Head Start programs can use after an injury occurs. It helps for emergency preparedness planning related to natural disasters.
Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment
The Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) service is Medicaid's comprehensive and preventive child health program for individuals under the age of 21.