Health & Nutrition
Health & Nutrition
Helping Children Grow Healthy and Ready to Learn
At Navajo Head Start, we partner with families to support children’s physical health, nutrition, safety, and overall well-being. We work closely with parents, health care providers, and community partners to ensure children receive the health services, screenings, nutritious meals, and support they need to thrive.
Health & Nutrition Services
Nutrition Services
Healthy Meals Every Day
Navajo Head Start provides nutritious meals and snacks that support healthy growth, learning, and development. Our nutrition program follows Head Start and USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines. Meals are planned to meet children’s nutritional needs while respecting cultural traditions and family preferences whenever possible.
We Provide
- Healthy breakfast, lunch, and snacks
- Safe drinking water throughout the day
- Family-style dining opportunities
- Nutrition education activities
- Accommodations for special dietary needs
- Support for healthy eating habits at home and school
Families are encouraged to partner with staff to ensure their child’s individual nutritional needs are met.
Health Screenings and Preventive care
Supporting Your Child’s Health
Health screenings help identify concerns early and connect families with services when needed. Navajo Head Start works with families to ensure children receive recommended health care and screenings.
Required Health Screenings
Within required Head Start timelines, children may receive assistance with:
- Vision screenings
- Hearing screenings
- Developmental screenings
- Growth assessments
- Dental examinations
- Physical examinations
- Lead assessments
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit screenings
- Immunization monitoring and follow-up
Our goal is to help every child receive appropriate preventive health care and early intervention support when needed.
Medical and Dental Care
Connecting Families to Care
We work with families to help identify:
- Medical providers
- Dental providers
- Health insurance coverage
- Community resources
- Transportation and referral support when needed
If a child needs additional services based on screening results, staff assist families with referrals and follow-up care.
Oral Health
Healthy Smiles Start Early
Good oral health is essential for learning and development. Navajo Head Start supports families in obtaining age-appropriate dental care and teaches children healthy oral hygiene habits.
Oral Health Services Include
- Dental exam tracking
- Dental referrals
- Daily toothbrushing activities
- Oral health education
- Family support and resources
Children with teeth participate in supervised toothbrushing activities as part of the daily classroom routine.
Food Allergies and Special Diets
Keeping Children Safe
The safety of children with food allergies, medical dietary needs, and special meal accommodations is a top priority.
We Support
- Food allergy management
- Medical dietary accommodations
- Religious and cultural food preferences
- Individual nutrition planning
- Communication between families, classrooms, and food service staff
Families should notify staff of allergies, intolerances, or dietary restrictions during enrollment and whenever changes occur.
Medication Administration
When Medication Is Needed During the School Day
Some children may need medication while attending Head Start.
To safely administer medication, Navajo Head Start requires:
- Parent authorization
- Medical provider instructions
- Medication in the original labeled container
- Appropriate staff training
Families should discuss medication needs with program staff as early as possible so arrangements can be made safely.
Daily Health and Safety Practices
Promoting Healthy Learning Environments
Our staff follow established health and safety practices every day to prevent illness and support children’s well-being.
Daily Practices Include
- Daily health observations
- Handwashing routines
- Cleaning and sanitation procedures
- Safe diapering and toileting practices
- Illness prevention measures
- Emergency preparedness procedures
These practices help create a safe and healthy environment for all children.
Partnering with Families
Families Are Essential Partners
Parents and guardians are their child’s first and most important teachers. Navajo Head Start values family involvement and works together with parents to support children’s health and development.
Families are encouraged to:
- Share health updates
- Participate in screenings and follow-up care
- Review health information regularly
- Ask questions and seek support when needed
Together, we can help children build a strong foundation for lifelong health and learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What meals are provided?
Navajo Head Start provides nutritious meals and snacks that meet USDA nutrition standards.
What if my child has food allergies?
Please notify staff during enrollment and provide any required medical documentation so appropriate accommodations can be made.
What Screenings are required?
Children participate in health, hearing, vision, developmental, and dental screening processes according to Head Start requirements.
Can medication be given at school?
Yes. Medication can be administered when proper authorization, documentation, and procedures have been completed.
What happens if a screening identifies a concern?
Staff work with families to arrange referrals, follow-up care, and additional support services when needed.