Navajo head start logo depicting childrens building blocks with the words Navajo head start and 1965 encircling

Mental Health & Disability Services

Mental Health

Navajo Head Start is committed to creating supportive conditions that help young children with social-emotional concerns and their families thrive. Recognizing that the earliest years of a child’s life lay the foundation for lifelong emotional well-being, social skills, relationships, and overall success, we provide comprehensive services and family partnerships that promote positive mental health, emotional well-being, social competence, and resilience. Through culturally responsive practices and evidence-based strategies, Navajo Head Start supports healthy social-emotional development by working closely with Mental Health Consultants, parents, teachers, family service staff, and community partners throughout the Navajo Nation. These collaborative efforts help children develop confidence, resilience, self-regulation, and healthy relationships while preventing the onset of emotional and behavioral challenges, ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

 

Promoting Social-Emotional Competence

Navajo Head Start supports children by:

  • Building positive relationships between children, families, and staff.
  • Providing safe, nurturing, and predictable learning environments.
  • Teaching emotional awareness, self-regulation, and problem-solving skills.
  • Encouraging positive peer interactions and social skills.
  • Supporting children’s self-confidence, cultural identity, and resilience.
  • Partnering with families to reinforce social-emotional development at home.
  • Providing access to mental health consultation and support services when needed.

 

Mental Health and Wellness Resources

Families may access additional information and support through:

  • Navajo Nation Division of Behavioral & Mental Health Services (DBMHS)
  • Indian Health Service (IHS) Behavioral Health Programs
  • Navajo Treatment Center for Children and Their Families (NTCCF)
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
  • National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Child Development Resources
  • Local schools, healthcare providers, and community support agencies

 

Navajo Head Start is committed to promoting the mental health and well-being of all children and families by fostering strong relationships, early intervention, family engagement, and culturally respectful support services.

 

 

 

Child Abuse Reporting

Early Head Start (EHS) and Head Start (HS) staff and parents receive annual training on Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) Policies and Procedures. Navajo Head Start staff are mandated by law to report any suspected or known cases of child abuse or neglect to the Navajo Nation Department of Family Services (Social Services), local law enforcement agencies, and parents or guardians, as required by policy and applicable regulations.

 

To help ensure the safety and well-being of all children, Navajo Head Start staff conduct and document daily health assessments. These assessments include visual observations of each child for signs of illness, injuries, cuts, bruises, or other health concerns. Any observations are documented and addressed according to program policies and procedures to support a safe and healthy learning environment.

 

 

 

Disabilities

Services for Children and Families Who Need Additional Support (Disability Services)

Navajo Head Start is committed to supporting children and families by ensuring access to early intervention and specialized services when developmental, educational, or health concerns are identified. Children who are referred for further evaluation by local schools, healthcare providers, or early intervention agencies may qualify for services if they are determined to have a disability or developmental delay.

 

Navajo Head Start staff work closely with families to conduct developmental screenings, provide referrals to appropriate community resources, and coordinate follow-up services. Staff collaborate with families, educators, service providers, and local education agencies to ensure children receive the individualized support they need to participate successfully in the Head Start program. Through early identification, intervention, and ongoing support, Navajo Head Start helps children develop the skills necessary for school readiness and a successful transition to elementary school, promoting positive educational outcomes and lifelong learning.