Health at Head Start covers a wide range of services that includes the child’s well being as a whole. By collaborating with Sacramento Children’s Health Initiative, Cover the Kids, families receive the assistance needed to obtain affordable health insurance to secure a medical and dental home. All enrolled children are required to have immunizations and screenings for cognitive development, basic health, speech and language, hearing, vision, and dental health.
Nutrition Services at Head Start ensures that enrolled children receive healthy nutritious meals that meet at least one-half to two-thirds (depending on the length of the program day) of their daily nutritional needs. Head Start staff are trained to assess the nutritional status of children at enrollment each year and a Head Start Registered Dietitian Consultant is available to provide follow-up care, such as with special medical diets and also disseminates information to families on nutritional requirements and relevant programs. Nutrition Services also coordinates with other community organizations and works with volunteer parent groups to optimize services. Currently, Head Start Nutrition Services is actively involved in a curriculum that encourages families to make healthier nutrition choices and to learn to enjoy a lifestyle that includes regular physical activity.
Health/Nutrition Contact: Garnett Volkens, Health Coordinator (916) 263-5661
For more information call (916) 263-3804
