The information in this chapter applies to all children who are birth to 5 years old in Head Start and Early Head Start programs. But there are a few considerations when planning for very young infants and toddlers with special health care needs:

• These are often new or emerging diagnoses. Besides understanding and learning to care for their young child with this new diagnosis, families are still adjusting to and coping with this information.
• At a time of rapid growth and development, infants and toddlers may often need changes in their medications and treatments. At the same time, since the condition may be newly diagnosed, health care providers may still be deciding on the best management practices.

A health manager can assist in the care of infants and toddlers with special health care needs by staying in close communication with the family. This will help health managers learn what support families need and to stay up to date on changes in the child’s care.

Last Updated: October 25, 2023