Programs
Early Learning Services
Head Start’s commitment to wellness embraces a comprehensive vision of health for children, families, and staff. Through collaborations among families, staff and health professionals, child health and development concerns are identified and families are linked to ongoing sources of accessible care to meet their basic health needs. The objective is to support healthy physical development by encouraging practices that prevent illness or injury, and by promoting positive, culturally relevant health behaviors that enhance life-long well-being.
Head Start realizes that each child is a unique individual who brings his/her own challenges to the learning process. Development concerns are evaluated through home and classroom screenings and through referrals to specialists; as needed. An individualized education plan (IEP) or family service plan (IFSP) for each child with special needs is provided by Head Start, often in collaboration with the Public Schools and/or other Agencies. Arrangements are made for additional services to be provided on-site or through community resources as appropriate.
The overall goal of the Head Start program is to foster a greater degree of social competence in children and their families. The objective is to provide each child with a safe, nurturing, stimulating, enjoyable, and secure environment in order to help him/her gain the skills and confidence necessary to be prepared to succeed. The Family Development Coordinator along with program consultants organize activities, resources and support services to help children/families overcome or lessen their mental health concerns and to develop to their full potential.