Understanding Mental Health Consultation in Head Start Programs
Use this resource to learn more about mental health consultation and how to find a consultant who meets your Head Start program’s unique needs.
Mental Health
Head Start programs support the mental health of children, families, and staff every day. Early childhood mental health is the same as social and emotional well-being. It is a child’s developing capacity to express and regulate emotions, form trusting relationships, explore, and learn—all in the cultural context of family and community. The mental health of children and the adults that care for them is essential for school readiness.
Supporting Social and Emotional Well-being
Explore this collection of resources to learn how to support children’s social and emotional well-being. This collection also includes resources related to adult mental wellness.
Understanding and Managing Children’s Behaviors: Individual Support Plans (ISP)
This tip sheet provides guidance for developing an Individual Support Plan (ISP) for children who may need more intensive help with their emotions and behavior. Explore relevant regulations and resources.
Understanding and Managing Children’s Behaviors
Find strategies to support children's healthy social and emotional development and prevent or reduce behaviors that could negatively affect their development. Explore relevant standards and resources.
Understanding Children's Behavior as Communication
Explore ways early childhood staff can partner with families to understand and respond to children's behavior as communication. Find strategies for working with families of children ages birth to 5.
Biting: A Fact Sheet for Families
Biting is a common but upsetting behavior of toddlers. It is important for parents to address biting when it occurs. This fact sheet provides tips for parents and program staff on how to better understand issues around biting.