Mental Health
Head Start programs support the mental health of children, families, and staff every day. Early childhood mental health is the same as social and emotional well-being.
Head Start programs support the mental health of children, families, and staff every day. Early childhood mental health is the same as social and emotional well-being.
Eligibility, recruitment, selection, enrollment, and attendance (ERSEA) tasks are some of the most important work performed by Head Start programs.
Family well-being means all family members are safe, healthy, and have chances for educational advancement and economic mobility. When families face challenges, their health and wellness can be negatively impacted.
Effective, nurturing, and responsive teaching practices and interactions are key for all learning in early childhood settings. They foster trust and emotional security, offer rich communication and language learning, and promote critical thinking and problem-solving.
Head Start programs are not required to provide transportation services. When they do, programs must comply with key regulations. Explore these resources to support the safe and efficient transportation of children.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), as required by Congress, established the Designation Renewal System (DRS) to determine whether Head Start agencies deliver high-quality and comprehensive services to the families they serve.
Screening and assessment provide valuable information about each child's interests, strengths, and needs. Screening gives a snapshot of whether the child's development is on track.
School readiness is foundational across early childhood systems and programs. It means children are ready for school, families are ready to support their children's learning, and schools are ready for children.
The collaboration between early childhood staff, families, and community agencies builds positive relationships. These relationships support parents’ progress toward their goals for themselves and their children.
Head Start programs must establish procedures on data management and, through ongoing assessment, use data to effectively oversee progress toward program goals, needs, and compliance.