Headstart at Shands

The overall objective of the Early Childhood Development and Health Services (EC&HS) area is to provide all children with a safe nurturing engaging enjoyable and secure learning environment. The end results are the development of skills and increased confidence deemed necessary to succeed in their present surroundings. It also assists in coping with responsibilities that may arise later in school and in life. The Head Start Program places great emphasis on developing school readiness skills in our young children.

*Early Childhood Development integrates the High Reach Framework Curriculum into our childrens daily lesson plan. Children are evaluated using the Fluharty (language profile) and Brigance (screening) instruments. We also utilize the Galileo Assessment tool to determine gains throughout the program year.

*Child Health and Developmental Services ensures that through established partnerships between families staff and in collaboration with area health professionals all child health and developmental concerns are identified early. Children and their families are linked to an ongoing source of continuous accessible care strategically placed to meet their basic health needs.

*Child Health and Safety supports the healthy physical development of our children. This is done through encouraging daily practices that assist in preventing future illnesses or injury and by promoting positive culturally relevant health behaviors in families that will eventually enhance overall well-being.

*Child Nutrition promotes child wellness by providing nutrition services that supplement and complement those of the home and community. Head Start meets two-thirds of a childs daily nutritional requirement. Program activities are provided to assist children and families with establishing good eating habits and to understand the importance of wellness practices in their home environment.

*Child Mental Health Services builds collaborative relationships among children families staff mental health professionals and the larger community. This is done in order to enhance an awareness and understanding of positive mental health practices.
Additional Services:
Full Day Food Served

Child Ages:

3 years - 5 years

Licenses & Accreditations:

Florida Department of Children and Families

Special Needs:

Child Mental Health Services

Preschool:

Yes

Hours of Operation:

Monday_Friday 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM