Health and School Readiness

Head Start staff can use these resources to learn more about the connection between health and school readiness and to ensure every Head Start child is ready to succeed in school.

Little girl learning to use a toothbrush

Healthy Children Are Ready to Learn

School readiness begins with health. Use this resource to learn more about the connection between health and school readiness. Learn about the importance of identifying and treating specific health conditions that impact learning.

Little boy in a daycare playing doctor to a doll

Health Strategies to Support School Readiness

The Head Start approach to school readiness means that children are ready for school, families are ready to support their children’s learning, and schools are ready for children. Explore the nine strategies that support the connection between health and learning described in Healthy Children Ready to Learn. 

Health Services to Promote Attendance

Good attendance leads to lifelong learning and positive habits. Use this resource to learn how to identify health-related causes for children’s absences and then build systems that improve attendance.

When Health Affects Assessment

Teachers use assessments to get a clear picture of a child's development, but health concerns may affect a child's performance. Use this resource to consider children’s health status when planning and analyzing the results of program assessments.

Group of children cheering on a playground

Healthy Transitions to Kindergarten

Head Start health services staff support kindergarten readiness by having conversations with families before they leave Head Start. In this tip sheet, find questions to engage families and suggested actions health services staff may take to help children make a healthy transition.

School Readiness

School Readiness