HEALTH & DISABILITIES

All Children Have the Right To Be Happy Healthy Learners

Comprehensive Health Services is a cornerstone for all DCPC programs. DCPC contracts with the University of Wisconsin for the services of two Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. A staff Speech & Language Pathologist assesses Head Start children for suspected speech or language concerns.

Preventive health services are provided to all children enrolled in Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

  • Assisting families in finding a "medical home" -- a family doctor and a source of funding for payment for the health care they may need.
  • Assisting and supporting families in receiving medical, dental, mental health, and nutritional services. Timely and complete immunizations, health screenings for speech, language, vision, and hearing are recognized as critical prevention strategies for children.
  • An audiometer was generously donated and provides additional hearing follow-up when needed by all DCPC children.
  • Dental nights occur several times during the year for Early Head Start children and Dental Clinics are arranged during the day for Head Start children.
  • Hearing screenings occur through a collaboration with the University of Wisconsin and children are able to receive follow-up care through this resource.
  • Photo screening is provided through a collaboration with the Lion's Club, who come to our programs during a scheduled health fair -- in collaboration with Dane County Health Services.
  • Children with suspected disabilities are screened during scheduled events at our program with local school districts.

Children and families enrolled in all of our programs receive guidance and support in learning good health and nutrition practices.

  • Children brush their teeth after meals, with younger children receiving support from Teachers in learning this new skill.
  • In child care programs, children may be provided with healthy, nutritious, and culturally appropriate snacks and meals.
  • Necessary parent education is provided for parents who need support in safe practices around their homes and in cars, purchasing healthy foods, and developing child expectations and discipline that is in line with their child's developmental milestones.

Mental health services are provided through a Mental Health Consultant. The consultant is available to support individual children through Teacher and Family Outreach Worker referrals.

  • Provides training and education to staff and parents.
  • Observes in all DCPC classrooms to support Teachers with observation-based strategies and evaluate children's needs.
  • Conducts seven mentoring meetings monthly for Teachers and Family Advocates, providing professional support and case management evaluation discussions.
  • When needed, develops individual Child Behavioral Plans that suggest routines and activities to assist Teachers in scaffolding communication and social skills, helping children learn to regulate their emotions and behaviors.

Children's Services Team