Parent/Family Engagement Mental Health

POLICY:

NOCAC Head Start will work collaboratively with parents to better understand their child’s behavior and mental health issues.

PROCEDURES:

1. The Disability Services Coordinator (DSC) will work collaboratively with families by
   1. Obtaining parent/family input and observation forms completed for screening or at the time of enrollment
   2. Sharing staff observations of their child and discussing and anticipating with parents/families their child’s behavior and social-emotional development as the need arises
   3. Discussing and identifying with parents/family appropriate responses to their child’s behaviors
   4. Discussing and providing information on how to strengthen nurturing, supportive environments and relationships in the home and in the classroom
   5. Helping parents/family to better understand various mental health issues through literature/printed materials, as requested
   6. Supporting parents/family participation in any needed mental health interventions, as well as referrals for mental health counseling according to the specific need of each family

Mental health issues are sensitive and should be treated as such by being respectful and following confidentiality policies.

Forms and Additional Guidance: