HEAD START®

Caring for Children with
Chronic Conditions

Training Guides for the Head Start Learning Community

Table of Contents | Preface | Introduction | Module 1 | Module 2 | Module 3
| Continuing Professional Development | Resources

Continuing Professional Development

1. Develop a Series of Workshops on Caring for Children with Chronic Conditions

Develop a series of workshops on caring for children with chronic conditions for Head Start staff, parents, and interested community members. Invite a panel of presenters including a parent of a child with chronic conditions, a health professional, and a teacher of a child with chronic conditions.

Encourage panelists to share their feelings and experiences, provide general information about the condition, and make recommendations for improving in the care of children with chronic conditions.

2. Take Time to Discuss Challenges Faced by Staff

Periodically reserve time during staff meetings to discuss challenges in caring for children with chronic conditions. For example:

• Has communication with parents or health professionals been difficult?
  
  
• Is the timing of procedures or staffing problematic?
  
  
• Do you need some tips in helping the child to cooperate with taking medication?
  
  Work with colleagues to share strategies to address the challenges.
  
  Work with colleagues to share strategies to address the challenges.
  

3. Investigate Other Head Start Programs

Investigate other Head Start programs that are successfully caring for children with chronic conditions. Visit the programs and observe procedures, review their policies, and share strategies.

4. Join Organizations that Advocate for Children

Many organizations advocate for children with special needs–join one or two. Read the publications to become informed about current issues. Advocate for improved services for children with chronic conditions and their families in your community.

5. Attend Workshops on Caring for Children with Chronic Conditions

Attend classes, workshops, and conferences on caring for children with chronic conditions. Courses may be available through the local community college, child care resource and referral agency, hospitals, and other community organizations.