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Use these forms to document dental home information and current oral health status and services; such as diagnostic and preventive services, counseling, restorative and emergency care, and referral to a specialist.

The tip sheet provides oral health best practices for infants, toddlers, and young children. Review information on how to handle basic oral health emergencies.

Not only is music enjoyable for infants and toddlers, but it can also provide a connection to home, opportunities to learn, and a way to connect with caring adults. Explore this useful information for teachers, home visitors, and parents about how music supports development across domains.

One-third of the children in Head Start programs are dual language learners (DLLs) who are learning English while also learning their home language. Virtually all of these children will code switch. In other words, they mix two or more languages in the same sentence while speaking. It is important that teachers, home visitors, and other staff understand what code switching is, the role it plays in language development, and how to respond to it.

Teachers know and understand the broad range of content areas and the developmental expectations (i.e., social and emotional, cognitive, expressive and receptive language, motor, adaptive, and English language development) appropriate for young children as outlined by the Head Start Early Learning Framework. Teachers consider what they want children to know, understand, and be able to do using the five essential domains.

For infants and toddlers, school readiness refers to their developing capacity to self-regulate, demonstrate curiosity, communicate effectively, and develop close, secure relationships. Good health and proper nutrition support this developing capacity. This happens within the context of nurturing, culturally responsive relationships with parents, caregivers, extended family, and community.

Sign up to receive two free text messages per month with information, tips, research, and resources to strengthen and support your teaching practices.

Learn more about the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) anywhere you go, by downloading this useful mobile app designed for teachers.

The ideas and strategies outlined below are available in a variety of formats. They include Twitter postings ("tweets"), classroom activities, and supplemental materials that can be sent home for families to do at home.

The What Works Brief is a continuing series of easy-to-read, "how to" information packets on a variety early learning practices. Program managers and in-service providers may find this resource useful in meeting professional development needs. This brief discusses children’s emotional literacy and illustrates practical intervention strategies for early childhood settings and home environments