As part of its comprehensive services, every Head Start program provides services to promote health, behavioral health, and safety for children and families. New and experienced health services staff can use these resources to learn more about health services and the role of health services staff. This topic area also includes professional development resources for health services staff, child care health consultants, and others who support health services across all early care and education settings.

Resources on this page are in the process of being updated. Please refer to the Performance Standards for the most current requirements.

Health Manager Orientation Guide

Use this guide to orient Head Start health managers to their role and to strengthen the provision of health and behavioral health services across your program.

Head Start Health Services Competencies

Head Start health services staff can use these tools to develop and strengthen the attitudes, knowledge, and skills they need to effectively support the health and safety of young children and their families.

Health and Mental Health Services Advisory Committee

All Head Start programs are required to establish and maintain a Health and Mental Health Services Advisory Committee (HSMHAC). Learn more developing and sustaining a successful HSMHAC.

Resources for Child Care Health Consultants

Explore resources for child care health consultants, including skill-building modules, competencies, webinars, and more.