Comprehensive Services

Healthy children are ready to learn

We understand that children’s health issues may prevent them from succeeding in school.

 

Under the direction of Head Start’s Health Coordinator, all enrolled Head Start and Early Head Start children & their families are connected with a primary health care provider in order that children receive regular physical and/or well-baby exams.

 

The Health Coordinator tracks immunization records and provides referrals as needed. Each child receives regular growth assessments and hearing and vision screens, verbal lead screens and TB screens.

 

Early Head Start & Head Start children attending school in a classroom setting brush their teeth daily on site. The Health Coordinator works with the family to attain dental exams, including cleanings and dental & fluoride treatments from local dentists.

 

Mental health is important, too

Teachers and Family Educators observe children for mental health or behavioral concerns. 

 

At time of program entry, every enrolled child receives a mental health assessment. The teaching staff, family support advocates and early intervention specialist work closely with parents to support children with mental health and behavioral concerns. Consultations, counseling and play therapy are provided as needed, with support from Intensive Family Counseling. In addition, parents have access to marital and family counseling on a sliding scale through a partnership with Friends University. Head Start of Shawnee Mission staff also works with SAFEHOME and the Johnson County Mental Health Center to ensure children and families receive the help they need. Parent trainings focusing on mental wellness topics such as stress reduction, positive parenting and family dynamics are held throughout the year.

 

Disabilities are not a barrier to success

Head Start’s Early Intervention Specialist works with the Shawnee Mission School District and Infant Toddler Services of Johnson County to identify children with disabilities through developmental screenings and coordinates services to those children.

 

The Early Intervention Specialist also provides support to families and teaching staff by conducting observations, facilitating referrals, attending Individualized Education Plan and Individualized Family Service Plan meetings, and assisting parents with advocating for the needs of their children.

 

Social Services help families in need

Family Educators & Family Support Advocates assist Early Head Start & Head Start families in evaluating their own strengths and needs. Each family sets a goal related to family self-sufficiency. If needed, the Family Educators and Family Support Advocates act as case managers, connecting families with community resources and support systems and help families plan for the future.

For more information, contact Head Start of Shawnee Mission at

913-649-9714.

Empowering children and families for success

Head Start of Shawnee Mission, Inc.