Health Services

The intent of the Health Component is to provide screening, diagnosis, prevention, intervention, treatment and follow-up services to children and education for parents in areas necessary to upgrade the child’s complete medical and dental health.

The total health of a preschool child is extremely important both now and in the future. Poor eyesight, a hearing difficulty, a slight speech problem can hinder a child’s educational abilities. Many health problems can be remedied if they are treated in time.

1. The Health component staff will assist and provide every child enrolled in Head Start, with a thorough health screening, which includes a growth assessment of height and weight, twice a year and vision/hearing screenings where necessary.

2. The medical examination should include:

1. A growth assessment / height & weight
2. Vision and hearing screenings
3. Blood test and urinalysis
4. Tuberculin Testing
5. Lead Poisoning test
6. Assessment of current immunizations
7. Identification of speech problems
8. Identification of any special needs of children.

3. Basic dental care will also be provided for all children who are in need:

1. A dental examination and follow-up treatment.
2. Provide toothbrushes in the classroom and fluoride toothpaste.
3. Instructions in good self-care oral hygiene procedures.

Parents will be provided information about all available health resources, as well as training in the principles of preventive health, emergency first aid and safety precautions. The health of a preschool child is critical to the learning process. Parents are requested to provide a record of a recent physical examination, tuberculosis clearance as well as immunization records prior to the child’s entry into the program.