Health is the foundation of school readiness. To help children thrive, Head Start staff ensure that children are up to date on immunizations and their state’s Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) schedule, learn healthy habits, and can access the care they need. Head Start programs also promote the physical and social and emotional well-being of families and staff.
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.
Vision screening throughout early childhood is important to identify and ensure treatment of vision disorders. This resource provides important information about vision screening and eye health for toddlers.
This video covers the importance of monitoring child development as well as guidelines for prevention of suspension and expulsion.
Learn how to address infection control in early childhood education settings. This video answers common questions about cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting.
This video provides information about how to reduce the risk of infectious diseases through protection against blood-borne pathogens.
Vaccines, especially the flu vaccine, are important protective measures. Head Start programs can make a big impact by encouraging staff, parents, and children to get these important vaccines to stay healthy.
Share this video on active play ideas for toddlers with parents on a home visit or during a socialization. Use this resource to help parents consider goals around physical activity.
IMIL is a Head Start initiative that seeks to increase the quantity of physical activity, improve the quality of physical movement experiences, and teach children about healthy nutrition choices.
It's important for children to get enough sleep. Learn how sleep is key to how your child learns, grows, and even behaves.
Parents and staff can use this brochure to learn about the effects of unsafe levels of lead in blood and about how to avoid lead exposure.