Caring Conversations About McKinney-Vento Eligibility
Learn how to use a caring conversations approach with families to gather information about their living circumstances and determine McKinney-Vento eligibility for Head Start programs.
Family Support and Well-being
Family well-being occurs when all family members are safe, healthy, and have chances for educational advancement and economic mobility. Support services such as early care and education, housing and food assistance, and physical and mental health care positively contribute to the well-being of families and their children. When families face challenges that cause stress, including poverty and homelessness, their health and wellness can be negatively impacted. Engaging families as active participants in problem-solving and goal-setting can help them identify and use their own strengths to address the challenges they face. When families are healthy, safe, and economically stable, their children's health and well-being can thrive.
Family Economic Mobility Toolkit
The Family Economic Mobility Toolkit shares information, ideas, inspiration, and hands-on resources to help Head Start staff partner with families on their journeys toward economic stability and mobility.
Respect Family Privacy and Confidentiality
Read these examples of respecting the privacy and confidentiality of families to strengthen relationships and trust. Then explore reflective questions to strengthen this practice.
Connect Families with Additional Supports
Explore these examples of connecting with other community organizations to help families access supports outside of Head Start. Then ask reflective questions to strengthen this practice.
Develop Short- and Long-Term Well-Being Goals
Read examples of supporting families to develop specific short- and long-term goals for well-being, along with reflective questions to strengthen this practice.
Make Safety a Priority for Families and Self
Explore practical examples of addressing safety issues for families, children, and service providers. Then delve into reflective questions to strengthen this practice.
Check In and Partner with Families
Explore examples of checking in and partnering with families to create and strengthen relationships, along with reflective questions to strengthen this practice.
Using the RBCs to Promote Family Well-being
Learn more about the concept of family well-being, the role of family services professionals and home visitors in supporting family well-being, and the systemic barriers to well-being that families face.
2021 Family Economic Mobility Institute
Explore these professional development sessions for Head Start staff. They are designed to increase ability to lead parent, family, and community engagement in your program.
Partnering with Families to Access Utilities Assistance During Emergencies
Families may have trouble paying for utilities and other services during emergencies. Explore this tip sheet to help families access financial assistance with their energy, water, cell phone, and internet service bills.