Free Health Services provided to Alta Head Start Children

The health of Alta Head Start children is one of our primary concerns. We provide a comprehensive health service program that features free preventive screenings and exams. Included are physical exams, vision and hearing screenings, oral health care and nursing services, as well as developmental and mental health screenings. We work closely with families to ensure they identify a medical support service within the community to give them accessible, continuous, comprehensive, family-centered medical care for years to come.

Oral Health Services

Head Start takes a very active role in promoting oral health care and preventive dental services. We work with our children and families to emphasize the importance of establishing good oral health habits at an early age and maintaining them throughout life. Children receive a yearly comprehensive dental exam, including fluoride application. Children and their parents are educated in effective dental hygiene practices, taking into consideration the age and development level of the child and their ability to clean their teeth properly and with the recommended frequency. Oral health education is completed by staff and outside collaborative agencies via workshops throughout the year.

Nutrition Services

Head Start also places a strong emphasis on nutrition. We provide our children with two-thirds of their daily nutritional needs, which is important not only for their health and well-being but also for their intellectual and social development. Many children living in poverty are facing hunger and malnourishment, while others can be overweight and be suffering with obesity. Head Start offers nutritious, ethnically diverse and child-friendly food through a state-of-the-art food service program.