Head Start Heals Campaign
The Head Start Heals campaign increases awareness about how Head Start programs are uniquely qualified to address trauma and promote resilience in young children and families. Explore resources to support this work.
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. It is a child’s developing capacity to express and regulate emotions, form trusting relationships, explore, and learn—all in the cultural context of family and community. The mental health of children and the adults that care for them is essential for school readiness.
Understanding Trauma in an Early Childhood Context
Watch this webinar to explore what trauma is and recognize its signs and symptoms in young children. Discover strategies to promote resilience in children and the adults who care for them.
Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences
In this overview, learn about the impact of trauma and adverse childhood experiences on children's development.
Trauma and Resilience
Explore this collection of resources to learn how trauma affects young children and find strategies to reduce its effects in children and adults.
Staff Wellness for Home Visitors
Discover the importance of staff wellness and professional boundaries in home-based settings. Explore safety practices to enhance staff relationships with families and strategies for self-care and reducing stress.
Attachment B: Office of Head Start Guidance on Implementing a Trauma-Informed Approach
Explore the critical role Head Start programs play in buffering the impact of trauma by promoting resilience for children, families, and staff. Learn more about implementing a trauma-informed approach.
Improving Outcomes for Opioid-Exposed Newborns: Together, We Can Do Better
Learn how Head Start programs can support families impacted by substance use. Find out how to support infants exposed to opioids. Hear about the most effective treatments for opioid addiction.
Impact of Substance Use on Children and Families
Learn about the effects of opioids on exposed infants and children. Find out how Head Start programs can support children and families impacted by opioid and other substance use disorders.
Evidence-Based Treatment of Perinatal Substance Use Disorders
Head Start programs can support children and families impacted by substance use. Learn about perinatal opioid use and effective opioid addiction treatments. Explore ways to connect families to community services.
Head Start and the Opioid Crisis
Learn ways Head Start can support families impacted by substance use. Find out how programs collaborate with city and state agencies, doctors, and schools to create a network of resources for families.