25-26 Head Start Family Handbook

2025-2026 FAMILY HANDBOOK

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Contacts

03

Reunification Info

04

School Calendar

01

05

School Menu

07

Orientation

10

Administration

23

Family Engagement

28

Health

31

Child Development

33

Mental Health

36

CMCA HEAD START

Mission Build Relationships to empower people, strengthen resilience, and improve quality of life for all members of the community.

What is "Central Office"?

Central Office is Head Start's administrative office. The Head Start Director, program administrators, and the program managers work at Central Office.

Where is Central Office?

807-B N. Providence Road Suite B Columbia, MO 65203 Phone: 573-443-8706 Website: cmca.us

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IMPORTANT CONTACTS Name

Position

Email

Beth Vossler

Head Start Director

bethv@cmca.us

Lisa Cumins

Assistant Head Start Director

lisac@cmca.us

Yolanda Smith

Child Development Administrator

yolandas@cmca.us

Tammy Hawk

Family Administrator

tammyh@cmca.us

Tracy Pistel

Family Administrator

tracyp@cmca.us

Melissa Scheer

Nutrition Administrator

melissas@cmca.us

Jackie Rivera

Health Administrator

jackier@cmca.us

Kishia Harms

Mental Health & Wellness Administrator

kishiah@cmca.us

Shere Bruner

Data System Administrator

shereb@cmca.us

Shelly Weed

Home Based / Prenatal / WERDCC Administrator

shellyw@cmca.us

Staffing Coordinator

brandyc@cmca.us

Brandy Cotten

Myriam Dominguez

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Tawnya Pace or Teressa Huskey

Interpretive Services Specialist

Site Administrators

myriamd@cmca.us

tawnyap@cmca.us teressah@cmca.us

FAMILY REUNIFICATION What is that?

In the event of an emergency that requires us to evacuate and relocate, students may be picked up at a designated reunification location by an identified, responsible adult who has been listed on the child's emergency contacts.

Reunification locations for our childcare program will vary by site. Families will be informed of the two possible locations during orientation.

If you are ever unsure of the reunification spots, please reach out to the Site Director for assistance.

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SCHOOL CALENDAR September

1st: Labor Day All Closed 15th: Staff Training Day-Close

October

20th: Staff Training Day-Close

January

1st-3rd: Winter Break All Sites Closed 20th: MLK Day All Closed 26th: Staff Training Day-Close

February

16th: Presidents Day All Closed

November

7th: Hermitage Closed 25th-28th: All Sites Closed

December

19th: 1/2 Day Early Release-Teacher Work Day 22nd-31st: Winter Break All Closed

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SCHOOL CALENDAR March

9th-13th: Hermitage Spring Break 1 24th-25th: Spring Break sites closed except: Glasgow, Fayette, R-6 30th-3rd: Spring Break for Glasgow, Fayette, R-6 Closed

June

18th: 1/2 Day Early Release-Center Work Day 19th: Juneteenth All Closed

July 3rd: 4th of July All Closed

April

20th: Staff Training Day-All Sites Closed

August

3rd-7th: Staff Training All Closed 10th-14th: Staff Training All Closed

May

4th: Agency Day-All Sites Closed 8th: Truman’s Holiday-All Sites Closed 25th: Memorial Day-Monday Sites Closed 26th: Memorial Day 4 Day Centers ONLY Closed

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SCHOOL MENU

07

7 week menu

08

7 week menu

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ORIENTATION

2025-2026 School Year

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ORIENTATION REGULATIONS Head Start Program Performance Standards These regulations are the guidance mandated by the Office of Head Start.

Program procedures and policies are developed in accordance with these regulations. HeadStart.gov

State of Missouri Childcare Licensing

Every licensed childcare facility must follow these regulations which are available on the web to view at any time. Office of Childhood

Food Program Regulations The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) has regulations on what type, amount, etc. of food is allowed to be given.

CACFP

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Several of the facilities are accredited. Accreditation is the benchmark of quality among early education programs. There are additional standards of quality in order to achieve accreditation.

NAEYC

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ORIENTATION SAFETY Program Safety

CMCA is committed to providing a high-quality education and learning experience for children in a safe environment. All adults in the facility will undergo a background screening. Anyone who has been convicted of a sexual offense against a child, and/or is a registered sex offender, shall not be allowed to enter a Head Start Center without permission from the CMCA Executive Director. Adult anger, threats, or violence will not be tolerated. Head Start staff will call 911 in the event that: An adult yells at another adult or child and is unable to calm down An adult has a weapon or threatens to use one An adult physically attacks an adult or child If a staff member feels like his/her safety or those under their care are in jeopardy An adult threatens the life or safety of staff and children at the center

Child Abuse and Neglect

All employees of CMCA Head Start are mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect. If an employee suspects abuse or neglect, they are required by law to report their concerns. It is important for parent/guardians to know signs & symptoms of abuse or neglect. Possible signs include but not limited to: child is withdrawn, shows aggressive or destructive behavior, hurts other children or animals, states they are afraid of a particular person, has repeated injuries, or is poorly cared for (dress, hygiene, etc.).

To report any suspected child abuse/neglect, call the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-3738.

Tobacco/Smoke Free Policy

CMCA recognizes its responsibility to promote an healthy environment.

Our Tobacco/Smoke Free Policy states that tobacco, vape, smokeless tobacco, or marijuana use by staff or others on the premises is prohibited. Any home visits should be tobacco free.

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ORIENTATION Safety Video Recording The program reserves the right to videotape its facilities, indoor and outdoor, for safety, security, HR, as well as staff training. These recordings are not available to the public.

Should there be an incident that requires law enforcement, Office of Head Start, or children’s division involvement, those recordings will be made available to those organizations.

The cameras can also be used to observe children with the permission of the parent/guardian.

Active Supervision Your child's safety is our top priority. Our program follows the Head Start approach to active supervision, which means staff are always watching, listening, and engaging with children to ensure they are safe and accounted for at all times. Children are never left alone or unsupervised while in our care.

Confidentiality We are committed to protecting your family’s privacy. Our program keeps all personal information (PII) about children and families confidential and only shares it when required by law or with your written permission.

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ORIENTATION HEALTH & DENTAL REQUIREMENTS Head Start is required to screen all children within the first 45 days of enrollment to determine the developmental level and abilities of a child. Screenings performed by trained staff will only be done with parent/guardian permission. All screening information will be shared with the parent/guardian. Screenings are performed in order to detect concerns that may impact a child's ability to learn. The family is responsible for any health follow-up.

DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENINGS Preschoolers use Developmental Indicators for the Assessment of Learning (DIAL) which screens for motor, concepts, and language.

Infants/Toddlers use the Ages and Stages Questionnaire-3 (ASQ-3) which screens language development, gross motor, fine motor, problem-solving & personal/social skills.

VISION SCREENINGS Infants under the age of 6 months will have a functional vision screen such as tracking an object.

Children over the age of 6 months will have the Pediavision SPOT that detects concerns such as: Near-sightedness (myopia) Far-sightedness (hyperopia) Unequal refractive power (anisometropia) Pupil size deviations (anisocoria) Eye misalignment (strabismus)

HEARING SCREENINGS An Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) hearing screen is used to identify hearing loss in children. Children may be referred to their Primary Care Physician or Audiologist based on the results of the OAE. BLOOD PRESSURE Children can have heart attacks and strokes, just like adults. Blood pressure is checked on all children over the age of 3 years HEIGHT & WEIGHT Growth assessments are done 2 times during the school year. Growth checks help ensure your child is growing at a average rate.

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ORIENTATION HEALTH & DENTAL REQUIREMENTS Head Start is required to screen all children within the first 45 days of enrollment to determine developmental level and abilities of a child. Screenings performed by trained staff will only be done with parent/guardian permission. All screening information will be shared with the parent/guardian. Screening are performed in order to detect concerns that may impact a child's ability to learn.

PHYSICAL EXAM A physical exam by a health care professional is required to promote wellness and to identify any existing health problems. For children ages 3 to 5 years, a exam is required annually. For infant and toddlers, the exam is required on a more frequent basis.

The following schedule is the required ages for physical exams: 1 month 2 months 4 months 6 months

9 months 12 months 15 months 18 months

24 months 3 years 4 years 5 years

DENTAL EXAM An exam by a dentist is required when teeth begin to erupt to make sure your child's teeth are healthy, strong, and growing properly. Teeth are important for chewing, talking, and smiling. Healthy baby teeth guide in healthy permanent teeth. Required annually but recommended every 6 months.

HEMOGLOBIN OR HEMATOCRIT A hemoglobin or hematocrit level checks for anemia (not enough iron in the blood). Children that do not get enough iron from their diet may also be anemic.

If your child is found to be anemic, then your doctor may prescribe iron supplements. Increasing food high in iron may also help with anemia. Required at 1 year, 2 years and 5 years of age.

Recommended at 3 years and 4 years of age.

LEAD Lead poisoning can lower a child's IQ, interfere with growth, and can cause behavior problems. In Missouri, lead poisoning is a special concern due to mining of lead and other minerals in the state. Lead can also be found in older homes/buildings with lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust. Other possible sources of lead could be contaminated air, water, and soil.

Lead screening is completed yearly.

Certain High Risk counties may require blood level testing in addition to a screening.

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ORIENTATION CENTER REQUIREMENTS ATTENDANCE Your child's attendance is very important!

We encourage arrival no later than 9 am to be present for the instructional portion of the day. If your child has an appointment, make sure you inform the staff. This is so the center can ensure appropriate ratio and supervision of children as well as provide quality instructional time for the class as a group.

We understand that things happen: illness, vacations, and emergencies. When this occurs, call the center and let them know that your child will not be at school. If we do not hear from you, we will call or possibly come to your house. We want to make sure that everyone is okay. If attendance falls below 90% a plan will be developed.

Children are required to be picked up before the center closes or at a designated pickup time. If you are late, there is a $5 per minute late fee or volunteer time that would be owed. Head Start funding only covers half of the day

REST TIME POLICY Children have time to rest or sleep every day. Missouri licensing requires preschoolers to rest of a minimum of 30 minutes on a cot. After 30 minutes, children are allowed to play quietly. Infants and toddlers are allowed to sleep whenever they are tired. Infants less than a year old are put to sleep on their backs in their crib. Infants who cannot roll front- to-back and back-tofront will be returned to theirs backs if they roll over while sleeping. Blankets and toys are not allowed in cribs, and children's heads are never covered. Infants can wear a sleep sack to keep them warm if needed. Children over 12 months need parent/guardian permission to be moved to a cot to sleep. Staff will physically check all children while sleeping to ensure safety.

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ORIENTATION CENTER REQUIREMENTS BREASTFEEDING Head Start encourages breastfeeding mothers to continue breastfeeding while your infant attend the center.

Mothers are welcome to visit the center to breastfeed their infant.

Mothers can express breast milk and Head Start will bottle-feed the expressed milk.

Breastfeeding mothers are asked to: Store their breast milk in the refrigerator or freezer right after they express it and label the bottles/storage bags with baby's name, date, and time the breast milk was collected.

Fill the bottles/storage bags with the amount of breast milk the baby usually drinks at one feeding leaving at least 1 inch at the top of the container, if freezing breast milk.

Carry bottle/storage bags of fresh or frozen breast milk to the center in a cooler with an ice packs.

If you have questions or concerns regarding breastfeeding, please tell the staff so they can help you contact a certified lactation counselor.

CAN I BRING IN FOOD OR DRINK FOR MY CHILD'S CLASS? For safety reasons, parents and/or guardians may NOT bring in food or treats to their child's classroom. This includes drinks and bottles.

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MEALS FOR CHILDREN Head Start will provide meals and snacks for your child. Head Start participates in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), which helps ensure the children are served healthy meals and snacks that meet their daily nutritional requirements. Preschoolers and toddlers are served family-style meals where staff and children eat together sharing the same menu. Infants are fed on demand.

Infant meals will be documented on the Daily Report Form and sent home with you each day. Infants will be fed according to what the infant is eating at home and according to USDA's food program guidelines. Head Start will provided formula and baby food.

Infants will be held while feeding breast milk/formula.

Bottle feedings are gradually shifted to cup feedings anytime between 6 and 18 months of age. It's best to wean babies from a bottle to cup about 1214 months of age.

Infants are weaned from formula to whole milk between ages of 12-13 months.

Baby food is usually introduced around 6-8 months.

Staff will communicate with the family on the infants nutritional needs.

ORIENTATION HOME BASED REQUIREMENTS Attendance in Home-Based Program Option: Your child’s attendance is very important!

We are required to conduct weekly 90minute home visits in your home or another agreed-upon location.

These visits are essential to support your child’s development and to work together on your family’s goals.

You and your home visitor will work together to establish a consistent day and time each week for your individualized home visits.

Regular attendance helps ensure your child receives the full benefit of the program.

If you need to reschedule a visit due to illness or emergency, please contact your home visitor as soon as possible.

Missed visits should be made up whenever possible.

If attendance falls below 90% a plan will be developed.

Each week, your home visitor will bring individualized learning activities into your home that support your child’s developmental milestones and learning goals.

These activities are designed to be engaging, age-appropriate, and tailored to your child's unique needs and interests.

Parents are encouraged to take an active role in planning and participating in these activities.

Your input helps us ensure the experiences are meaningful and relevant to your family.

Together, we can support your child’s growth and learning in the most effective way.

Attendance in Prenatal Program Option: Your attendance is very important!

We are required to conduct weekly 60minute home visits in your home or another agreed-upon location.

These visits are essential to support your prenatal and fetal development and to work together on your family’s goals.

You and your home visitor will work together to establish a consistent day and time each week for your individualized home visits.

Regular attendance helps ensure you receive the full benefit of the program.

If you need to reschedule a visit due to illness or emergency, please contact your home visitor as soon as possible.

Missed visits should be made up whenever possible.

If attendance falls below 90% a plan will be developed.

Each expectant mother enrolled in our program will be invited to attend our monthly virtual baby showers. These events are designed to celebrate and support you during your pregnancy by providing essential items for your baby, increasing prenatal education, and connecting you with other prenatal moms in the program.

Our goal is to promote healthy prenatal development and support positive birth outcomes by providing education on topics that are most critical to a healthy pregnancy.

Through individualized support and evidence-based information, we aim to empower expectant mothers with the knowledge and tools needed for a healthy pregnancy and a strong start for their baby.

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ORIENTATION SICK CHILD POLICY WHAT IF MY CHILD IS SICK? If your child is sick, he/she will not be allowed to attend at the center. Parents are responsible for the child's care when sickness occurs. Any child taken to the center sick will be sent back home.

The health of your child is one of our main concerns. Each day, teachers will perform a quick health check for obvious signs or symptoms of illness. If there is a concern that your child might be ill, then the center will contact you to pick up your child.

Licensing regulations require by law that a child NOT attend with the following sign/symptoms of illness:

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Diarrhea more than once within a 24 hour period Severe coughing difficult or rapid breathing Yellowish skin or eyes Pinkeye Unusual spots or rashes Sore throat or trouble swallowing Infected skin patch (crusty, bright yellow, dry or gummy areas of skin) Unusually dark, tea-colored urine Grey or white stool Fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit Headache or still neck Vomiting Sever itching of the scalp If your child exhibits one or more of the symptoms, then your child will be kept isolated from other children, but close to a staff member until he/she is picked up.

WHEN CAN MY CHILD RETURN AFTER AN ILLNESS? A child may return to the center after he/she has not shown any of signs/symptoms for 24 hours.

WHAT IF MY CHILD HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH A COMMUNICABLE DISEASE? If a child has been diagnosed with a communicable disease, then a written release is required from a physician stating that the child is free from all communicable diseases. Communicable diseases include, but not limited to: Measles Ring Worm Chicken Pox Pink Eye Impetigo *Lice Influenza (flu) Hepatitis Meningitis Mumps Scabies Diagnosed TB Rashes Strep Throat Viral or Bacterial Infection

*Head Start has a NO NIT Policy regarding head lice.

CAN MY CHILD HAVE MEDICATION AT THE CENTER? Children requiring medication at the center must have a dated, written, signed Action Plan from a healthcare professional.

The only medications not requiring a prescription or Action Plan are sunscreen, teething gel, Vaseline and OTC diaper rash ointments.

All medication must have a signed medication authorization form.

ORIENTATION FAMILY CODE OF CONDUCT CMCA Head Start has adopted the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Code of Ethical Conduct and the Community Action Workers Code of Ethics. All employees, consultants and volunteer agree to these standards of conduct as they relate to children, families, staff, and communities. CMCA's Family Code of Conduct incorporates many of the same standards and expectations.

CMCA FAMILY CODE OF CONDUCT As a Family, I agree to respect each child, family, and staff member, and will not stereotype based of gender, race, ethnicity, culture, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.

As a Family, I agree to be respectful of children, staff and families when visiting the classrooms and centers and on home visits conducted off site.

As a Family, I agree to attend family functions including home visits, center meeting and trainings, and Parent Teacher Conferences.

As a Family, I agree to follow program confidentiality policies concerning information about children, families and staff members.

As a Family, I agree to openly talk with the program staff and work to resolve issues that may arise.

As a Family, I agree to use positive language and have a positive attitude.

As a Family, I agree not to physically punish or discipline my own child(ren) or any child while at the site.

As a Family, I understand that the most important thing I can do at my child’s center is to be a positive role model.

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ORIENTATION FAMILY PARTNERSHIP CMCA Helps Families Succeed Through Coaching and Support

At CMCA, we believe in supporting the whole family. Our early childhood program is guided by the Family Pathways Framework, a comprehensive approach that promotes long-term success for both children and adults. Each family is partnered with a Family Success Coach—a dedicated staff member who works alongside parents or caregivers to identify strengths, set goals, and overcome challenges. While your child learns and grows in the classroom, your Family Success Coach provides one-on-one support to you, helping your entire family move forward together. Together, we build pathways to lasting success.

Family Development Path Together with your Family Success Coach, you will: Complete surveys and assessments to explore your interests, strengths, and needs Identify a personal goal that you are ready to work on Receive support in finding the resources and tools needed to achieve your goal Families enrolled in center-based programs will participate in monthly coaching sessions lasting up to 60 minutes. Your journey is unique—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

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ORIENTATION PROGRAM SUPPORTS Policy Council Policy Council (PC) is a group of parents and community representatives that supports the management structure of the Head Start program. PC assists in guiding quality improvements and strategic direction for the program.

Each center has at least 1 parent elected to PC to represent their area. This a leadership opportunity for parents. It can seem overwhelming at first, but the service provided to the program directly benefits own child and family.

PC meets monthly virtually. Meeting information is emailed. The meeting is run in a business format with voting, but don't worry, the Program Director and Administrative Coordinator are present to help guide the meeting.

Family opinions and points of view are critical to the success of the program.

Non-Federal Share Half of the day is funded by the Federal Government through the Office of Head Start. For every $1 the program MUST get $0.25 from the community...That is you!

We collect this largely through volunteering.

You can help support the goals in many ways, such as: Working on your child's goals Volunteering in the classroom Volunteering outside the classroom (ex: helping at parent meetings) Being a part of the Policy Council Donations All time must be tracked and we have simple forms for that and will provide it to you. Parents are a very large resource to collect the required match. This is how we should the government that this program has the support of the community!

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ADMINISTRATION

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PROGRAM ADMINSTRATION

This section describes the administration and program procedures used to operate. CMCA is committed to providing a quality early childhood program.

Program Operations

CENTER BASED Your child attends a classroom 4-5 days per week where they socialize with their peers, participate in the structured curriculum High Scope, and receive nutritious meals. Head Start funding pays for half the day and we offer extended child care to families that are working or in school for a fee. The program has an open door policy and families can come by at any time.

Visits

HOME BASED The home based program serves children from birth to 3 years. Children and their families receive weekly 90-minute home visits focused on parent/child relationships, infant/toddler development, parenting skills, and school readiness.

Families and home visitor work together to plan activities each week that is tailored to meet the needs of their child/family. Our home base program uses the Hawaiian Early Learning Profile (HELP) curriculum. Families in home base program are encouraged to attend group socializations that are offered 2 times per month. This group socialization is called "Parent and Child Together Time" (PACTT).

PRENATAL Our Home Based visitors conduct prenatal service in the home through weekly home visits. Prenatal services place a strong emphasis on understanding fetal development, learning parenting skills, recognizing postpartum depression, etc. Each family is encouraged to attend group socializations that are offered 2 times per month.

Group socializations have valuable prenatal topics and provide opportunities to interact with others. Pregnant mothers in the program continue enrollment until their baby is 6 weeks old. Staff will assist families in applying for our home based or center based services for their newborn.

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PROGRAM ADMINSTRATION ENROLLMENT ADMISSIONS To be eligible for the program, families must meet the federal income guidelines and their child must be ageeligible. Eligibility for the program is determined at the time of application or transition. Children who are above income guidelines, transition from Infant/Toddler to Preschool, or are enrolling in a third year of preschool must repeat the eligibility process.

In accordance with Head Start Performance Standards, families are enrolled into the program based upon the program's selection criteria.

Prior to enrollment, all families must complete orientation at the Head Start Center and provide documentation that the child has up-to-date immunizations and a current physical exam.

CARE While enrolled in the Head Start the family will participate in a quality early childhood development program that includes, but not limited to: a structured curriculum, nutritious meals/snacks, health, mental health, and family development services.

SIGN-IN AND SIGN-OUT It is very important that children are signed in and out each day. Staff must record the date/time and the signature of the adult that is bringing the child or picking them up from school.

In the case of an emergency, this documentation will be vital in ensuring that your child is safe. Your teacher will help by providing you with reminders before you leave the classroom.

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Transitions Families separate from the program for a variety of reasons. If you choose to remove your child from our program, please notify your Head Start center's Site Director as soon as possible

PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION EMERGENCIES What happens in an emergency or during bad weather?

In the event of an emergency, the program will decide on the best course of action for keeping children safe. Head Start's policy is to hold children until the safety of leaving the center has been established. Each staff is trained in Emergency Preparedness, First Aid, and CPR. Emergencies include, but are not limited to, tornado, fire, earthquake, bomb threat, and intruder alert. Each Head Start center maintains non-perishable food and water in case of emergency.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS For school closing, or a late start, or emergency, please listen for information on your local TV stations and look for a text/email/call from the your child's center.

Communication App ChildPlus Communication App is a messaging system that can notify families of center closings, upcoming parent events, and other important information. The system will send out an email or text to all identified individuals. Please be sure to update your contact information if it changes so that we can contact you as needed.

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PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION DUAL LANGUAGE LEARNERS

Children who are learning two or more languages at the same time, or those that learned one language first and a second one later, are considered Dual Language Learners.

Bilingual Families in the Program What does this mean?

Communication with families is very It means that children are building up important in Head Start. We strive to two or more ways to speak, listen, write, communicate with families in their read, understand the world, and to preferred language through organize lots of information in their interpreters. minds. Most of the time, they will feel more comfortable communicating in a CMCA Head Start has a high quality preferred language (usually the home program where we recognize the language). culture and values of families and The language you speak with your child is the first language they will learn. It is their first connection to you, to the rest of their family, and to their culture & community. It is the language they first use to learn about the world around them.

Being bilingual helps children build strong thinking skills. Helping them learn your family's language and culture are something to be proud of.

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embrace diversity and encourages the children to feel proud of their backgrounds.

How to get interpretive services CMCA provides interpretive services in person or virtually providing immediate, effective, and comprehensive communication. You may request interpretive services or translation for free.

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT

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FAMILY ENGAGEMENT Our program are family centered and recognize families as their child's primary teacher and nurturer. We expect that you will be fully involved as an equal partner in the education and development of your child. Our objectives are to educate children and families alike, create individualized family goal plans, and work cooperatively with families towards reaching their dreams for the future.

How you can become involved We welcome families to help plan and shape our program by participating in classroom activities, helping teachers plan educational experiences, parent committee, Policy Council, trainings, family activity nights, work at home to support the child's educational needs, etc.

Coaching Sessions for center-based At CMCA, we value building strong, supportive relationships with both your child and your family. Our commitment includes regular, personalized support through monthly coaching sessions designed to help you reach your goals.

Your Family Success Coach will meet with you for up to 60 minutes each month to listen, guide, and support your family’s journey.

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Male Involvement We encourage fathers or other male figures to be engaged in home visits, the family partnership agreement, goal settings, and to volunteer. Strong relationships with males who take an active role in children have been linked to many positive life outcomes.

The Partnership Process Our goal is to build a partnership with you, based on mutual respect and trust, and geared towards assisting you in meeting the needs of your child and strengthening your family. Your Family Success Coach will work with you to explore your strengths, interests and goals. If you have an unmet need, emergency, or crisis situation we will help you through it. We encourage you to ask for help when it is needed.

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT Parent Interest Survey We want to support you in topics that are of interest to your family. Your Family Success Coach/Home Visitor will provide educational information per your interests. If there is a topic not listed on the survey, please talk with your Family Success Coach/Home Visitor so they can support you.

Parenting Curriculum Our evidence-informed parenting curriculum is designed to strengthen the parentchild relationship, promote positive interactions, and foster essential life skills for both parents and children. Through engaging parent-child activities and guided sessions, the curriculum empowers caregivers with the tools and knowledge needed to raise confident, healthy, and well-adjusted children. Our parenting curriculum is grounded in research and designed to equip caregivers with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to support their child’s healthy development and foster strong family relationships. Core components include: communications skills, practical parenting skills, understanding child development, building a secure attachment and many other essential topics tailored to meet the needs of today’s families.

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HEALTH

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HEALTH SERVICES Health services include health, nutrition, disability, and mental health services.

Early identification of health problems is a large focus in Head Start as a child's health status greatly affect his/her ability to learn. If a health problem is identified, staff follow-up with families by assisting identify resources or assist with applying for health coverage such as Medicaid.

Health/ Mental Service Advisory Committee (HMSAC) Families are encouraged to join the HMSAC which advises the actions, policies, and procedures of health in Head Start. HMSAC is made up a families, community representatives, and staff. Please let your Site Director know if you would like to join us!

Immunizations & Schedule Immunizations are extremely important for a child's health. It is Missouri State Licensing Regulation and Law that all children attending a childcare facility be properly immunized. A child will not be able to attend a licensed facility if they are not up-to-date, or do not have the proper documentation for exemptions.

Children that are not to attend will still receive home visits until they are able to return to class.

Immunization Schedule

2 Months

4 Months

6 months

12 months and older

DtaP/DT

1

2

3

4+

PCV (Pneumococcal)

1

2

3

4

IPV (Polio)

1

2

2

3+

Hepatitis B

2

2

2 or 3+

3+

Hib

1

1+

2+

3+

MMR

1

Varicella

1

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CHILD DEVELOPMENT

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CLASSROOM SERVICES Continuity of Care Continuity of care means that your child will stay with the same teacher for as long as possible. This lets them build a strong, trusting relationship and helps them feel safe. This also lets you and your child's teacher really get to know each other and work together to best help your child.

Staff-Child Ratios This is how many children a teacher is allowed to supervise. For preschool classrooms, each teacher may supervise 10 children with a max of 20 children in the class. For infant/toddler classrooms, each teacher may supervise 4 children with a max of 8 children in the class.

Developmental Screenings & Assessment The DIAL/ASQ screenings help identify if a child may need additional services.

Ongoing assessments are completed for each child to guide their development and learning. This assessment is shared with the families.

The family's input beginning at orientation is an important factor in assessment the child’s development.

Curriculum- HighScope is based upon principles of active learning and is a curriculum approved for ages birth to five. Children's interests and choices are the heart of HighScope classrooms.

This approach is called "Child Initiated Learning". Teachers provide children with a wide variety of materials, plan experiences that build on their interests, and expand their learning through positive adult-child interactions. Each day, a HighScope classroom follows a consistent schedule of events called the daily routine. CMCA assess each child's development three times per year. This information is shared during the 2 home visits and 3 parent teacher conferences we have with each family throughout the year.

HighScope Goals for Preschoolers Learn through active involvement with people, materials, events & ideas.

Become independent, responsible, and confident. Learn to plan their own tasks, carry them out, and talk with others about what they have done and learned HighScope for Infants & Toddlers Learn with their whole body & senses Sustain their natural curiosity and desire to learn Communicate what they know Learn within the context of trusting relationships

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CLASSROOM SERVICES

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Classroom Behavior Management Guidance and Discipline CMCA encourages the use of safety, kindness and responsibility guidelines for each classroom. The expectation for a child's behavior must be developmentally appropriate to help the child develop self-control and assume responsibility for his/her own actions. Adults in the classroom will use positive words and actions that encourage conversations from children throughout all parts of the day except rest time.

Conscious Discipline We teach children what behaviors are expected using the Conscious Discipline approach. The foundation of this approach is safety, connection, and problem-solving. This approach is proven to increase self-control, develop a sense of safety, create connection and a concern for others, and to improve motivation in both children and adults.

Diapering A diapering procedure ensures children are safe and the classroom is clean.

Diapers are checked for wetness or stool at least every 2 hours, or whenever a child seems uncomfortable. Children will be promptly changed when wet or soiled.

Diapers are provided for free. If your child requires a different brand you must get a note from the doctor stating the medical reason. Families are encouraged to bring an extra change of clothing in case of accidents.

Toilet Training To help children use the bathroom on their own, staff members work with families to make toilet training plans.

We encourage children to use the bathroom and positively reinforce the child for their efforts.

Field Trips Field trips are in important part of the curriculum and are used to enhance each child's educational experiences.

Families are informed of the field trips in advance and are encouraged to join their child.

Outdoor Play Head Start provides time for children to participate in large group outdoor activities to support motor development on a daily basis. Child care regulations require outside time. CMCA use the Child Care Weather Watch to determine when to go outside. This means that children will be going outside except during storms, very hot, or very cold weather.

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MENTAL HEALTH& WELLNESS Mental Health & Wellness This includes our emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It is important to a child because it affects their ability to: Express their needs Pay attention Solve problems Get along with others Follow directions Persist when challenged Manage emotions Take initiative Be curious and interested in learning It is important to an adult because it affects their ability to: Have healthy relationships Make good life choices Maintain physical health & well being Handle the natural ups and downs of life Discover and grow towards our potential

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Promoting Mental Health and Wellness Services provided by the Mental Health and Wellness Team: Reviewing social & emotional screenings Classroom and child Observations Consultations with caregivers, teachers, and community health providers Referrals to outside mental health providers for children or adults in the family Opportunities for parent training Staff meet with classroom teachers to identify social, emotional and/or behavioral issues and develop strategies to support the child in the classroom.

Please feel free to contact the Mental Health and Wellness staff with questions or concerns you might have regarding your child's social and emotional development. We also provide play therapy at no cost to children enrolled in the program. If you are interested in speaking with our licensed therapist to learn more, please let us know.

MENTAL HEALTH& WELLNESS

Situations that can affect a child's mental health and wellness Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are difficult events that sometimes happen in our lives Examples might include death of loved one, car accidents, emotional, physical or sexual trauma, incarceration of a parent, divorce/separation, etc.

Our ability to "bounce back" (resilience) trumps our ACEs! Resilience is our ability to return to being healthy and hopeful after bad things happen. Research shows that if parents provide a safe environment for their children and teach them how to be resilient, reduces the effects of ACEs on the child.

Mental Health Crisis: If you or anyone in your family is experiencing a mental health crisis, call, text, videophone or chat 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Missouri. Go to missouri988.org for more information.

If a Head Start child is having a mental health emergency and the behavior is putting themselves or others in immediate danger, staff will ensure a staff member stays with the child while another staff member contacts the Mental Health and Wellness Adminisrtator. The Mental Health and Wellness Administrator will consult with the staff and family to develop a plan for immediate safety, as well as a long term plan for success., Screening Tool: Devereux Early Childhood Assessment (DECA) One of the tools Head Start uses to gather information about a child's social/emotional development is the DECA. The child's teacher or family member completes the assessment. The information gathered is used to plan learning experiences for each child to meet their developmental needs. Strategies are also provided to families to support them in teaching their child in the home.

DECA has three protective factors: 1.Attachment/Relationships: The child's ability to promote and maintain mutual, positive connections with other children and significant adults 2.Initiative: The child's ability to use independent thought and action to meet his/her needs 3.Self-Regulation: The child's ability to express emotions and manage behaviors in health ways

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COMMUNITY RESOURCES

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COMMUNITY RESOURCES There are several resources that support you while participating in the Head Start program at CMCA. Child Care Subsidy This program can assist with the costs of child care. You can apply online at: https://dss.mo.gov/fsd/child- care-benefit.htm Medicaid Mo HealthNet covers qualified medical costs for individuals. This resource can possibly cover not only children but now with adults. Visit myDSS.mo.gov/healthcare Food Assistance Food Stamps (SNAP): support buying food for income-eligible individuals.

Visit mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance Food Pantries: There are over 1,000 across the state.

Visit feedingmissouri.org Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): supports nutrition to income-eligible women, infants, and children up to 5 years.

Visit wic.mo.gov Central Missouri Community Action CMCA has so many more programs to assist you, not just Head Start! Visit www.cmca.us for all the resources, but below are a few resources: Energy Assistance Housing Financial Opportunity Center (financial education) Weatherization for your home SkillUp (supporting job skills) ShowMe Healthy Relationships Women's Business Center BRIDGE (supports into elementary grades)

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807 N. Providence Rd., Columbia, MO 65203 573-443-8703 www.cmca.us