OKALOOSA COUNTYHEAD START/EARLY HEAD START

PARENT HANDBOOK2012-2013

Mission StatementOkaloosa County Head Start/Early Head Start is committed to the Empowerment of Children with Diverse backgrounds, families and staff through the Support of Our Community for Personal growth and Development that will lead to a Successful Future.

Dear Parents,

WELCOME to Okaloosa County Early Head Start/Head Start Program. Our program is designed to provide you and your child with comprehensive early care and education services. These services include developmentally appropriate educational experiences, health, mental health and dental services. We provide family support services by offering parent training workshops on various topics, resource and referral information and most importantly a safe and secure environment for your child.

We encourage parents to participate in the Head Start Program through volunteering their time in the classroom or serving on the Policy Council. Parents are a child’s primary teacher and when you assist teachers and other staff, you become a part of every achievement we strive for on behalf of your child and the program. You are our most valuable resource.

This handbook was prepared to assist you in your understanding as to how the Head Start Program works for you and your child. We ask that you read it and use it as a guide throughout the year in understanding the program’s policies and procedures.

Again, welcome to Okaloosa County Head Start and thank you for giving us an opportunity to help you give your child a head start. We look forward to working with you and having a great year.

Sincerely,Ms. Janet Anderson ClarkExecutive Director

Okaloosa County Head StartBoard of Directors

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ChairpersonOkaloosa County School District

Dr. Lynn Boyer6

Dr. Vivian GreenVice-Chairperson/SecretaryCommunity Representative

Dick RynearsonCommunity Representative

Representative……..Community

Dr. Cheryl Seals Okaloosa County School District

Steven A. Rausch Treasurer City of Mary Esther, FL.

Pat Kennedy Community Representative

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Vice-ChairTABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome 2Board of Directors…………………………………………………………………………..3Table of contents 4Head Start Sites 5Okaloosa County Head Start..................................................................................................6Guiding Principles of Okaloosa County Head Start Okaloosa 7Early Head Start 0-5 care and education 8Head Start Pre-school 3-5 care and education 8-9Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) 9Family Services 10Health Services 10Immunization and Physical policy 11Mental Health 11Nutrition 11Disabilities 11-12Transportation 3-5 12Transportation Rules 12-13Open Door/Visitor Policy…………………………………………………………………...13Confidentiality Policy 13Illness 14Administering Medication 14When to keep your child home 15Attendance Policy 16 Late Policy 16Emergency Procedures 16Non-Emergency Procedures 17Dress Code Policy 17Persons Authorized to pick-up child 17Withdrawal Procedures 17Child Abuse and Neglect 18Corporal Punishment 18Inclement Weather 18Communication System 18-19Chain of Command................................................................................................................19Preschool Class Schedule 19-20Hints for Parents 21Rights and Responsibilities of a Head Start Parent 21Parent Code of Conduct......................................................................................................... 22Parent Involvement 23-24In-kind……………………………………………………………………………………….24Parent Activity Fund Instructions 25Head Start 0-5 School Calendar 26Parent Resource Page………………………………………………………………………..27-32Parent Hand Book Receipt…………………………………………………………………..33

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Head Start Center Sites

Programs Operate Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.Fort Walton Beach Center Chester Pruitt Center – ages 3 -5Main office- ages 3-5 15 Carson Drive22 McGriff St. Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 Ph# 850-244-4959Ph # 850-244-2606 Fax # 850-244-1194Fax # 850-244-0426

Niceville Center- ages 3-5 Fort Walton Beach EHS – ages 1-31200 Valparaiso Blvd. 22 McGriff St.Niceville, FL 32578 Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548Ph # 850-678-8461/6893 Ph# 850-244-2606Fax # 850-678-5935 Fax# 850-244-0426

Crestview- ages 3-5 Edney EHS – ages 1-31198 W, Edney St. 1198 W, Edney St.Crestview, FL 32536 Crestview, Fl. 32536Ph # 850-682-2912 Ph # 850-682-2912Fax # 850-689-0193 Fax # 850-689-0193

Crestview- ages 3-5 Lakeview EHS – ages 0-3700 Bay Street 227 Lakeview Dr.Crestview, FL 32536 Crestview, FL 32536Ph # 850-689-3645 Ph# 850-682-5931Fax # 850-689-3645 Fax # 850-683-3694

Laurel Hill- ages 3-5 Kennedy EHS – ages 1-38264 Stokes Rd. 215 Kennedy Dr.Laurel Hill, FL 32567 Crestview, FL 32548Ph # 850-652-4909 Ph# 850-682-1992Fax # 850-652-4909 Fax # 850-683-1184

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Okaloosa County Head Start/Early Head Start

WHAT IS HEAD START?WHAT IS EARLY HEAD START?Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded, center-based programs for families. These programs are available for pregnant women and children (birth through age 5). Families are selected according to federal income guidelines.Head Start/Early Head Start participates in a partnership with the family, the community and the child in order to enhance the social, emotional, cognitive and physical development of the child. This partnership is designed to ensure that the program and family goals are implemented to promote future success in school. Children and families who attend Head Start/Early Head Start participate in family-centered services, which include a variety of educational and social activities. Medical and dental screenings are provided for expectant mothers and children. Children receive healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy indoor and outdoor activities in a safe environment. These services facilitate child development, support parental goals and promote family self sufficiency. The Head Start/Early Head Start Programs help all children succeed. The program recognizes that the parent is the child’s first and most important teacher. Head Start/Early Head Start values your family involvement in program activities and agrees to work with families as a partner in your child’s development. The program needs your participation in every aspect of your child’s care.

The goal of Head Start/Early Head Start is to offer a comprehensive child development program involving families and the community. Because the family plays the pivotal role in child development, parents must participate actively in the program and understand that they are their children’s first and best teachers. It is crucial that staff and families work together in the best interest of the child. The overall goal of the Head Start program is to support children and families as they develop self-sufficiency.

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THANK YOU FOR ENROLLING YOUR CHILD INHEAD START/EARLY HEAD START.

Mission StatementOkaloosa County Head Start/Early Head Start is Committed to the Empowerment of Children with Diverse

backgrounds, Families and Staff through the Support of Our Community for Personal Growth and Development that will Lead to a Successful Future

Vision StatementOkaloosa County Head Start/ Early Head Start is and will be the Leader in Early Childhood Education through Exemplary Passion and Commitment from Staff. Okaloosa County Head Start/Early Head Start provides Cutting Edge Services and Support for our Families, Children and our Community

Guiding Principles of Okaloosa County Head StartWe believe……

Children are the Priority of the Okaloosa county Head Start/Early Head start Program.

In the personal growth and development of children and families

In letting children express their individuality by teaching them to respect themselves and others.

That children should be given the tools to maximize their learning potential

The philosophy that student improvement begins with teacher improvement.

In seeking new ideas and innovations to the Head Start program by Board members, Policy Council members, Community members and Staff members

In advocating for public policy for the future of our children.

That all children, families and staff deserve to be respected.

In children receiving proper nutrition, health and dental care.

In making a difference in the lives of our children, families, and staff.

That individual who benefit from the Head Start program should give back to the program.

In early identification and intervention of common risk factors for children and families.

That open and honest communication is the key to success.

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That all staff should have the opportunity to be trained and advance within the program.

In empowering the people around us.

Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children age (0 to five 3) and their families

Program Options

Centered-based ProgramEarly Head Start services are delivered at centers located in Crestview and Ft. Walton Beach. Early Head Start provides services from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Parents are responsible for providing transportation.

Early Head Start Curriculum Model

In Early Head Start it is important to have a clear framework for planning and implementing a developmentally appropriate program. Okaloosa County Head Start uses the Creative Curriculum for Infants and Toddlers to ensure the services being delivered to our children and families are based on sound child development theories about how children develop and learn. The staff acknowledges the importance of establishing a partnership with parents and involving them in meaningful ways. We recognize that every individual is rooted in culture; has the right to maintain his or her own identity; and that culture and family are the core of children’s social and emotional development.

Head Start Pre-school serves children age three to five years and their families

Program Options

Centered-based ProgramHead Start services are delivered at centers located in Crestview and Ft. Walton Beach Niceville, and Laurel Hill. Head Start provides services from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Parents are responsible for providing transportation.

Services to Children and Families:In Okaloosa County Head Start, our classrooms provide children with wonderful and exciting opportunities to explore their environment as they develop the school readiness skills necessary for Kindergarten. The centers are equipped with an outstanding team of professionals to ensure that your children are being nurtured in a safe and secure environment.

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Head Start/Early Head Start Curriculum:Creative Curriculum Preschool/Infant and ToddlersCurriculum plays a vital role in achieving Head Start's and Early Head Start’s goal of enhancing the social competence and school readiness of children.

The philosophy behind our curriculum is that young children learn best by doing. Learning isn't just repeating what someone else says; it requires active thinking and experimenting to find out how things work and to learn firsthand about the world we live in. In their early years, children explore the world around them by using all their senses (touching, tasting, listening, smelling, and looking).In using real materials such as blocks and trying out their ideas, children learn about sizes, shapes, and colors, and they notice relationships between things. In time, they learn to use one object to stand for another. This is the beginning of symbolic thinking. For example, they might pretend a stick is an airplane or a block is a hamburger. These early symbols - the stick and the block - are similar in shape to the objects they represent. Gradually children become more and more able to use abstract symbols like words to describe their thoughts and feelings. They learn to "read" pictures which are symbols of real people, places and things. This exciting development in symbolic thinking takes place during the pre-school years as children play. Play provides the foundation for academic or "school" learning. It is the preparation children need before they learn highly abstract symbols such as letters (which are symbols for sounds) and numbers (which are symbols for number concepts). Play enables us to achieve the key goals of our early childhood curriculum. Play is the work of young children.  Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK): We, at Okaloosa County Comprehensive Head Start Program, are committed to enhancing the quality care and education services that we provide to our children and families. Thus, we will offer the Voluntary Pre-kindergarten (VPK) School Year Program, which requires the delivery of 540 instructional hours over a 9-month period, at designated Head Start Centers during the 2012-13 school year. The VPK program is FREE for all children who are 4-years-old on September 1, 2012. This program is designed to prepare four-year-old children for kindergarten and features high literacy standards, accountability, appropriate curricula, substantial instruction periods, manageable class sizes and qualified instructors. The VPK class schedule is Monday – Friday, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Parents are responsible for their child’s transportation to-and-from the VPK program.

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Family Services 0-5:Family Services Family Services area coordinates the outreach and recruitment for the program. We also support families in their efforts to improve their quality of life by assisting the family’s to identify short or long term goals. We also educate families to utilize available community resources as temporary assistance; however, guide families to initiate, advocate, follow up and maintain service; subsequently leading to self sufficiency or to continue delivery of services. For example, Family Specialist will provide direct service to a parent, who identifies his or her child, does not have health insurance. Family Specialist will explore with the parent the available health insurance coverage, assist the parent to obtain the application, guide the parent through the application process, and models follow-up. Once the child obtains coverage, the Family Specialist will educate the parent on the importance of continuing the coverage, choosing the right medical home, and following the provider’s guidelines to ensure continuity of coverage. In addition, your Family Specialist can offer you vital information on various topics as well as complete a referral to community resources. Your Family Specialist is looking forward to meet and establish a working relationship with you to accomplish your family’s goals or needs. Your Family Specialist is available to meet with you throughout the school year. Health Services:The objective of the Health Services area is to promote optimum physical, dental, nutritional, and mental health of all children enrolled in Head Start. All families will be assisted in obtaining a medical doctor, dentist, and medical insurance for their child if needed. Health Services staff will ensure that all children have a health, developmental, and behavioral screening within 45 days of enrollment. NOTE: No screenings or examinations will be completed without prior approval from the parent. Our goal is to ensure that each child, either through Head Start funds or other community resources, receives the following:

* Regular Well Baby Checks

* A complete physical

* Preventive health services* Dental examination

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Immunization and Physical Policy:

Florida State statutes mandate that all children in a childcare setting have a current immunization form (DH Form 680 or DH Form 681-Religious Exemption from Immunization) on file at the center. It is also mandated that each child has a current physical exam documented on DH Form 3040, School Entry Health Examination. These forms are necessary before the child enrolls in Head Start. If either of these forms expires while your child is in the program, you will be notified approximately one month before the expiration date and reminded to take your child for the appropriate update. If this is not done, your child will not be able to come to the center until it has been accomplished. So please help us by keeping these items current. Your Family Services Specialist or Health Services Specialist can help you with this if needed.

Mental Health:Our agency recognizes that healthy social and emotional development depends upon how children view themselves, and that the behaviors that adults demonstrate are those which will be internalized and emulated by children. Therefore, the program offers the following mental health services to assist in promoting mental wellness in children, families, and staff.

Classroom and individual observations/recommendations An on-site mental health consultant Group and individual education on mental health issues Provide special help for children with atypical behavior/development Utilization of other community mental health services as needed

Nutrition:Good nutrition in the first few years of life plays a vital role in a child’s abilities to learn and to do well in school. It is also a basis for lifelong nutrition habits. At Head Start we follow the USDA Child Nutrition Program Guidelines and the Head Start Policies on nutrition.This means providing:

Two (2) nutritious meals- Breakfast and Lunch Afternoon snack Nutritional activities in the classroom Formula or breast milk as chosen by the parent

All food served in the Head Start Program must be prepared at the center or be commercially prepared. Our performance standards require that the food served must be high in nutrients and low in fat, sugar, and salt. Therefore, we will not be providing candy and other “junk food” at the centers. Please do not send any food to the center or to your child’s classroom. We will not be able to accept it.

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Disabilities: The Okaloosa County Head Start Program serves children who meet the State of Florida eligibility requirements for Exceptional Student Education and the Florida Department of Health, Children’s Medical Services-Early Intervention. Services are provided to meet the special needs of children with disabilities at the Head Start Center when possible. Services are provided by licensed, certified professionals as required by law. For infants and toddlers, Head Start contracts with Sacred Heart Development, Education & Intervention (DEI) Program to provide early intervention therapies and services. Parents need to provide the Head Start Disability Department with copies of any evaluations/medical reports related to the child(ren)’s disability or sign the Release of Information form so we can request the necessary information. Parents are provided copies of all Individualized Education Plan (I.E.P.), Individualized Family Services Plan (I.F.S.P.) and related paperwork on their child.

Transportation 3-5 Pre-School ONLY!The transportation component provides safe and effective transportation for children/families for field trips, medical/dental appointments, special services and limited services to and from school.

Message to Parents

Our goal is to keep our children safe while traveling to and from school.We need your help in this important task. When you transport your children to and from

school, please ensure that your child is seated in the proper child restraint seat in accordance with Florida State law.

Head Start Transportation Safety Rules

1. Please have your child ready to board the bus upon its arrival. Escort your child to the bus for boarding.

2. An adult must accompany a child when crossing the street at all times. Parents must use proper street crossing procedures: Stop and look both ways before crossing the street to ensure there are no vehicles coming.

3. All children must be seated immediately in their seat belts and remain in it at all times.

4. Please contact the center if your child is not to be picked up.

5. Parents must provide prior notification to the center if someone other than the individuals listed is to pick-up the child from the bus. Proper identification will

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be required before the child is released to someone other than the parent/guardian.

6. Know the Danger Zones of the bus. They are as follows: Both sides of the bus. Front and back and within ten feet around the bus. Never walk behind or beside a school bus. These are blind zones and the driver will not be able to see you.

7. Food, toys, backpacks, animals and glass containers are prohibited at all times on Okaloosa County Head Start school buses.

These things are very important in making the school bus ride to and from school both fun and a safe experience.

1. Wear bright clothes so the bus driver can easily see you.2. Line up quietly at the bus stop without pushing or yelling.3. Stay away from the curb or road until the bus driver stops and signals it’s safe to

get on.4. Stay out of the school bus danger zone- the area 10 feet around the bus on all

sides.5. Use handrails to get on and off the bus.6. Obey the bus driver and stay quietly in your seat; no fighting or shouting.7. Keep aisles clear. Put belongings in your lap or under the seat.8. Never throw anything in the bus or out the windows.9. Don’t stick your head, hands or legs out the window.10. If you need to cross the street, do so in front of the bus -never behind it- and wait

until the bus driver sees you.

OPEN DOOR POLICY

Parents/family members are required to sign in at the center and have identification available. We welcome parents/family members to participate in our program and all staff will make it a welcoming experience.

VISITOR POLICY

Visitors are welcome! Okaloosa County Head Start is committed to making your visit a safe, secure, and healthy one for you and others in the program. We require all visitors to Okaloosa County Head Start, Early Head Start, or Head Start facilities to abide by the following safety rules while you are here. It takes the efforts of program staff, parents, and visitors working together to make our facilities safe, secure, and a healthy environment. All visitors shall enter to the reception area or greeted by program staff to sign the visitors log immediately upon arrival and must sign out upon leaving. All visitors must abide by Head Starts policy and procedures. Visitors who fail to follow these policies may have their visiting privileges revoked and be asked to leave

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the premises. The program shall not be responsible for injuries as a result of violating these rules.

Confidentiality:One of the most important policies that have been established at Head Start 0-5 is our policy of confidentiality. All children’s files are maintained in locked cabinets and are available to the parent/guardian during regular office hours. Only with your written permission, will we send any records or information to any other agency or individual.

Administering Medicine:

Only prescribed medicine in the original container showing the child’s name, physician, administration instructions, and all pertinent information will be accepted by Head Start Staff.Parent / Guardian must:* Administer the first dose of medication at home.* Bring medicine in to the center. * Fill out an Authorization to Dispense Medication form. * These permission forms are valid for one month only. * One form must be filled out for each medicine. * Special permission for medication that is required on a continuous or as needed basis, such as inhalers for asthma, may be obtained from the physician. * Over the counter medicine such as Tylenol, cough syrup, etc., requires a doctor’s

note.

Illness:Do not send your child to school if he/she has a fever or is generally ill. If your child has any communicable disease such as: chicken pox, pinkeye, strep throat, etc., please keep him/her at home until the child’s doctor or nurse gives him/her permission to return to school. After three days of absences because of a communicable disease, you must bring to school A Return To School Notice from your child’s doctor or Health Department. This will ensure Head Start that your child is well enough to return to school without his/her illness affecting the other children.Teaching staff will follow the When to Keep Your Child Home Policy. Teacher will document child’s illness and complete the parent letter informing you when child I s eligible to return to school if a child is sent home from school ill.

Teachers will perform a daily health check on each child as the children enter the classroom. This check is a 30 second head to toe assessment of the child.

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If a child becomes sick at school:

The legal guardian will be notified immediately of the child’s illness and need for care. If legal guardian cannot be reached, the emergency phone numbers listed on the child release form will be contacted. The teachers will fill out an Illness Report. A copy will be given to the Health Specialist and the parent/guardian.

If a child comes to school with a parent/guardian/car pool, the child will be sent home immediately with that individual. A Symptom Record Form will need to be filled out.

If Head Start recommends treatment by a physician, a note from the doctor’s office must be obtained stating that the child is being treated and that he/she is no longer contagious and it is okay for the child to return to school.

When to Keep Your Child HomeSymptom May return to Childcare Requires M.D.

NoteFeverAuxiliary - 100°Oral - 101°

After fever has subsided for at least 24 hours. (A child sent home from school should remain home the following day). Fevers are usually accompanied by other symptoms which may be reason for exclusion

No

Vomiting2 or more times in 24 hours

24 hours after last episode No

Diarrhea with feverDiarrhea without fever

24 hours after fever freeWhen able to contain in a diaper or notExhibiting other symptoms

Yes

NoSkin Rash/Irritation With medical note stating the child is not

contagious and may returnYes

Ringworm

Ringworm on Scalp

24 hours after treatment is started. Must be covered while in center.Cannot be covered/contagious

No

YesImpetigo 24 hours after treatment is started YesChicken Pox 6 days after the onset of rash and/or once sores

have dried or crusted NoHand, Foot and Mouth Disease

After fever has subsided for 24 hours Yes

Fifth’s Disease With a medical note stating child is not contagious

Yes

Strep Throat 24 hours after treatment is initiated/ 24hours without a fever Yes

Scarlet Fever With medical note stating child may return / 24 hours without a fever

Yes

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Measles 6 days after onset of rash YesMumps 9 days after onset or swelling subsides Yes

Lice When child is louse free and the parent has provided a dated receipt and box from treatment

No

Scabies 24 hours after treatment initiated and with a note stating child may return

Yes

Nasal Drainage (Rhino rhea) with feverNasal Drainage (Rhinorhea) without fever

24 hours after fever free

Will remain in the classroom unless specified by the physician

Yes

Pinkeye/ Conjunctivitis 24 hours after treatment started with a note stating child is not contagious

Yes

Mouth sores with drooling

When sores are dried or with medical note stating is not contagious and may return

No

Signs of possible severe illness, unusual lethargy, persistent crying, uncontrolled coughing, difficulties breathing

When child can participate comfortably in child care setting

Depends on diagnosis

Attendance Policy – Absences:

The following reasons are considered to be excused absences:1. Illness.2. Temporary family situations.3. Medical / Dental and clinic appointments (including immunizations).

It is the responsibility of the parent to notify their child’s teacher when they know in advance that their child will be absent/late or as soon as the parent is aware the absence/tardy is going to occur. This can be done by contacting your child’s center and speaking to either their teacher or to your Family Services Specialist. When the child is absent three (3) consecutive days without notification, a conference will be conducted with the parent and the Family Services Specialist. Continuous excessive absences (excused or unexcused) may result in the child being terminated from the program. It is imperative that you understand the importance of your child attending school on a regular basis so that he/she will become familiar with the daily routines and learn the responsibility of attending class on a regular basis.

Head Start is mandated by the Federal Government to meet a required 85% average daily attendance while school is in session. VPK hours are from 2-5 PM. We hope that you will support our program by allowing your child to be here during the entire three hour period. VPK attendance is very important, extended or excessive absence from the program may result in the loss of the child’s VPK slot.

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Late Policy:School hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and to 5:00 p.m. if your child is enrolled in VPK. Children need to be on time everyday for school and picked up on time. Tardiness causes disruptions in the classroom, prevents concentration on classroom activities, and leaves the child at a disadvantage due to getting a late start. We do understand there will be some isolated instances when your child is going to be dropped-off or picked-up late. However, when this occurs, please contact the Head Start Center so the teachers may schedule their day accordingly.

Emergency Procedures:If an injury occurs, the following steps will be taken:

1. A Staff member will call 911.2. First aid will be given until emergency personnel arrive.3. Staff will contact parent/guardian, and document times of contact/attempts.4. Child will be made as comfortable as possible.5. The Director and Health Services Staff will be notified immediately of the accident.6. The child will be assessed by emergency personnel and taken to the nearest hospital if so indicated.7. Parent / Guardian have the right to remove the child to transport to the hospital or seek other medical treatment.8. A staff member with the child’s health and medical information will accompany the child if the parent / guardian are not present.9. Proper documentation (to include an accident report) should be turned-in to the Director.

** PARENTS **: **It is important to notify us immediately when you move, change your telephone

number or change jobs!!**

Non-Emergency Procedures:If a non-emergency occurs, the following steps will be taken:1. Staff will contact the parent/guardian as listed on the emergency card within ten

(10) minutes of the incident, documenting times of contact/attempts.2. The Health Manager/ Center Director/ will be notified of the incident. Should they

be unavailable, the Director’s designee will be notified of the incident.3. The child will be made as comfortable as possible until the parent arrives.4. Parent/Guardian has the right to remove the child should the situation warrant.5. Proper documentation, to include the incident report, should be completed by the

attending staff member(s) and signed by the parent. The signed report will then be turned-in to the Center Director/Health Manager.

Dress Code Policy:

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For children: Parents, please dress your child in clothing that is appropriate for school activities. All children will participate in outdoor activities on a daily basis unless it is raining. Also, we ask that you not dress your child in opened-toe sandals or flip-flops. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD! We have lots of sand and playground equipment that can trip-up little toes. Please dress them in a tennis shoe or shoes that cover the entire foot.

For parents: Parents, we ask that you remember that Head Start is a place of business, and that you dress appropriately (i.e. no sleep wear, clothing that shows excessive cleavage, etc.) when dropping-off and picking-up your child, as well as during any other visit to one or more of our centers.

Persons Authorized to Pick-up Child:Children will only be released to adults 18 years and older that are listed on the emergency card. Photo identification will be required (if not personally known) before the child is released. No Phone calls for authorizing pick-up for the any one not on emergency card. It is your responsibility to update your emergency card for the following reasons:

Address Telephone number Legal custody of the child Day time emergency contact person and telephone

number Place of employment Additional persons for pick up

All updates must be done in person, no phone calls or letters

Withdrawal Procedures:In the event you wish to withdraw your child from the Head Start 0-5 Program, please be sure to let us know you are no longer in need of our services. Please notify both the classroom teacher and your Family Service Specialist so we may formally withdraw your child. This allows us to immediately fill the vacancy with a child from our waiting list.Child Abuse and Neglect:According to HRS/PL 175-17 (10-82), it is the legal responsibility of Head Start Staff to report any suspected child abuse and/or neglect to the Department of Children and Families in accordance with Florida Law and Head Start Performance Standards.Training in the prevention of child abuse and neglect is provided during the year for parents and staff.Corporal Punishment:Corporal punishment is defined as the use of physical force as a form of discipline. This includes, but is not limited to, spanking, slapping, pinching, jerking, pulling hair, etc.Isolation refers to separating the child from normal association with classroom activities. Isolation in which the child is left totally unattended is forbidden. The use of corporal punishment and/or total isolation of any child will not be tolerated in Head Start by staff or parents.

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Head Start is a No Spanking Zone and parental discipline should be handled in your own home. Parents are also asked to refrain from using harsh words with their child to include cursing while on Head Start property. Children under the age of eight (8) should not be left unattended in your vehicle. All Head Start employees are mandated reporters who are required to report these occurrences to the proper authorities.

Inclement Weather:Okaloosa County Head Start, in most cases, follows the Okaloosa County School District when deciding to close school due to severe weather or unforeseen circumstances. Listen to local radio stations or Channel 3 TV to find out if Okaloosa County Head Start will be closed. The following procedures will be followed when these situations occur:

Announcement to the media will be made Parents’ day time contact phone will be called Children receiving bus service will be loaded on the bus after the announcement

of closing and start their route.

Communication System:Communication between parents and Head Start staff is very important. We will do the following in order for us to ensure parents are informed about opportunities for their children, as well as their families, within the program and training.

Children will bring home a monthly newsletter.

Children will bring home notes and permission forms to be signed and returned.

All parents are invited to attend various monthly meetings and training

opportunities.

Send change of phone number and/or address as soon as possible so that we

can contact you in times of an emergency.

Teachers are required to have two home visits and three parents - staff

conferences per school year with all enrolled children.

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Family Services Specialists will schedule bi-monthly contacts to ensure Head

Start provides the necessary services to families. These contacts can occur in

the staff’s office, parent’s home, or via telephone, whichever is most convenient.

Parents are welcome to visit the center daily at any time.

CHAIN OF COMMANDAs a parent, if you are ever faced with a concern that you feel is not being met, please use the following “chain of command.” The Head Start/EarlyHead Start Program believes in working with parents and staff to address any concerns a parent may have with the program.

Communicate your concern in the following order:Step 1 - Speak to the teacher about your concern when she/he is not busy supervising children, or your Family Service Specialist.Step 2 - If you are not satisfied with the solution, speak to the Early Childhood Education Manager, center director or any Manager the concern is pertaining to.Step 3 - Again, if you are not satisfied, speak to the Human Resource ManagerStep 4 - Finally, you would speak to the Head Start Executive Director.

Daily Schedule

The daily schedule should provide consistency in a balanced program of child initiated and adult-directed activities, including individual and small group activities, routines and transitions. The daily schedule will be posted in every classroom so that staff, parents and volunteers are of the days’ sequence and structure. The schedule is to be followed consistently; children develop a sense of security from knowing how the day’s events will be ordered. The schedule may be flexible to accommodate special activities such as visitors to the centers or special events. The schedule may be revised during the year as the children grow, develop and expand their skills.

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Pre-school classroom schedule:8:00 a.m. Children’s arrival and welcome

8:05-9:00 Hand washing / Breakfast / Teeth brushing

9:00-9:10 Sing-a-long

9:10-9:20 Planning Time

9:20-9:50 Learning Centers/ Activities

9:50-10:10 Clean- up

10:10-10:20 Recall

10:20-10:35 Small Group

10:35-11:00 Outside Time

11:00-12:00 Hand washing / Lunch / Teeth brushing

12:00-12:30 Circle / Story Time

12:30-1:30 Rest Time

1:30-1:45 Snack Time

1:45-2:00 Prepare for dismissal

Helpful Hints for Parents: Make sure your child is at school every day unless he or she is ill or there is an

emergency family situation.

Dress your child in Play Clothes. Children will be required to be in closed toe

shoes at all times.

Spend time at your child’s center. VOLUNTEER! Attend and be active at your Parent Center Committee meetings and activities.

Do not let your child bring toys, money, etc., unless the teacher has a show-and-

tell activity.

Do not let your child bring dangerous items to school such as: Guns (even toy

ones), sharp objects, lighters; nail clippers, knives, fingernail files, etc.

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Rights and Responsibilities of Head Start Parents1. Participate in the process of making decisions about the nature and operation of the

program.

A. Attend monthly Parent Committee meetings during your child’s enrollment.

B. Be kept informed of current activities / events in the program.

C. Be a member on the Policy Council, Health Services Advisory or Education

Services Advisory Committees.

2. Participate in the classroom as a VOLUNTEER!A. Visit the center at any time.

B. Help plan and assist in activities with the children.

3. Assist in developing and implementing parent activities that will be beneficial to the

family and community.

4. Work with your children at home and in cooperation with Head start Staff.

A. Welcome and participate in home visits and conferences with the Head Start staff

to share information and ideas.

B. Discuss what ideas you have for the center.

5. You have the right to be treated with respect from Head Start staff. You have the

responsibility to respect Head Start staff. Parents/Guardians and staff should

respect the health, safety, and emotional well-being of children at all times.

Disorderly conduct and/or verbal abuse from either party will not be tolerated. ( See

Parent Code of Conduct Policy below)

6. If you have a concern/issue with the classroom activities you need to:

A. Request a parent/teacher conference.

B. If issue is not resolved to mutual satisfaction, you can request a conference to

include a Manager.

7. If you have a concern/issue with the Head Start Program you may need to:

A. Schedule a conference with the appropriate staff involved.

B. If the issue is not resolved to mutual satisfaction, you can request a conference

to include a Manager.

8. If after completing 6 & 7 you feel that you have not been treated fairly, you have a

right to file a parent complaint. (Please ask for form from the Family Services

Specialist).

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9. Parents/Guardians have a right to appeal any decision(s) to the Executive Director.

The decision of the Executive Director will be final.

PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT

It is the expectation of Okaloosa County Head Start families that:

.Adults will not leave children unattended in the building or in vehicles ٭

.Visitors will not play loud music in the parking lot or create loud disturbances ٭

All visitors will respect the building, parking lot, grounds, supplies and equipment and will ٭clean up after themselves and their children while on site.

All ٭ adults will treat ALL others with whom they come into contact with respect and dignity. They will refrain from loud talking or shouting, cursing, name-calling, quarrelling, verbal or physical fighting, making displays of anger or making rude remarks to staff, children, or other visitors/parents.

All visitors are to dress appropriately while at school whether visiting, volunteering in the ٭classroom, or dropping off their children (e.g. No pajamas, sagging, clothing with obscenities or making reference to drugs/alcohol, clothing that is of a revealing nature)

Visitors will not smoke or bring alcohol or other drugs onto the property including in the ٭parking lot.

.Visitors will refrain from inappropriate or excessive displays of physical affection with others ٭

All parents and authorized adults will make themselves aware of Okaloosa County Head ٭Start guidelines and regulations.

All adults conduct themselves in a way that provides the best possible model and ٭example for the children in our care.

All parents or community members with complaints are to follow the appropriate complaint ٭procedure as explained in the in the Parent Complaint Policy (see the Parent Handbook).

.All adults will exhibit patience and self-control in managing any complaints or grievances ٭

All adults will follow the directions of Okaloosa County Head Start Staff, including ٭administrators, teachers, custodial and kitchen staff and bus drivers and aides.

All parents and staff will drive at a maximum safe speed of 5 mph while in the Head Start ٭parking lot.

For the safety and well-being of all our children and families, all parents and staff will ٭refrain from using the Bus Lane for parking, using available parking in the lot.

All parents, whenever possible, will establish a “hold hand” policy with their children ٭when walking between the parking lot and the building and maximizing safety.

.All parents are expected to sign this agreement each school year ٭

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.Adults will refrain from yelling at or hitting their children while on site ٭

Parents will be supportive of the goals of the classroom and the school in assisting their ٭child.

Parent Involvement: The Foundation of Head Start

 Volunteering in Head Start: We Need You!

Parents are encouraged to volunteer for Head Start in any way they feel

comfortable.  There are a variety of volunteer opportunities, all valuable and all

necessary for the program to run effectively.  

Volunteering in the program is a good way to gain skills and knowledge that may give

you the experience you need for future employment.

Volunteering is also a great way to be part of a supportive community that serves

children.  Here are just some of the possibilities for how you can volunteer in Head

Start.

Classroom Volunteer Lead or support activities with children, read books with

children, participate in curriculum meetings; provide additional classroom support

so that each child gets more individual attention. 

Parents are always invited to share a meal with their child and spend time in the

classroom.

Field Trip: Accompany a group on a field trip.

Clerical Work: Help file, type, and answers phones, send mailings, and complete

other projects in the Head Start offices.

Newsletter: Write an article for the program newsletter.

Participation in Parent Committees or Policy Council, attend Head Start Parent

Committee or Policy Council meetings.

Share your experiences or opinions to help make our program better!

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Legislature Attend legislative events to advocate for pertinent issues.

There are many ways for parents with all levels of skill and time commitment to

help in Head Start.  Please talk to your Head Start staff person or call the Family

Services Specialist at any of our locations volunteer work that is of interest to

you.

PARENT COMMITTEEThe child’s parents are members of the center’s and/or home-based program’s Parent Committee. These committees are organized in September and continue throughout the year. The purpose is to help the staff design and complete program policies, activities and services. This committee carries out formal and informal activities for the parents and staff through planning and participation. All members of the family are invited to participate. Head Start/Early Head Start assists families participating in the Parent Committee by providing care for your children during the meetings. Make plans to attend your program’s monthly Parent Committee meetings.The committee elects officers, Policy Council representatives, plans monthly programs, and maintains a parent bulletin board. A special training for officers is held in September or October.

POLICY COUNCILThe Policy Council is the governing body of the Head Start/Early Head Start Program. Parents are encouraged to serve on the Policy Council. Each family places a vote at the beginning of the year to elect parent representatives. The Council meets October -September. Policy Council members learn leadership skills and make suggestions to improve the Head Start/Early Head Start program.All parents are invited to attend Policy Council meetings. Each Parent CommitteePresident will receive Policy Council minutes to report at the monthly meetings.If you are interested in being a Parent Committee officer or a Policy Council representative, see your child’s teacher or family services staffHEALTH ADVISORY COMMITTEEHealth, Nutrition and Safety policies and procedures are developed utilizing federal, state and county guidelines with the assistance of medical and dental providers and community representatives. This is accomplished through the meetings of the Health Advisory Committee. If you are interested in becoming a parent representative on the Health Advisory Committee, see your child’s teacher, family advocate, school nurse, or family services assistant.

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Curriculum Committee Parents are invited to become integrally involved in the development of our program’s curriculum, goals, and approach to child development and education. Parents are integral partners in the processes of planning and implementing curriculum, as they can share knowledge about their children, and crucial in reviewing the effectiveness of the curriculum. Parents are involved in this committee by reviewing the curriculum on a regular basis, and participating on program self-assessment committees assigned to review how the curriculum is working and assisting in development and implementation of the curricula.

INKINDIf your child attends Head Start you will hear the word in-kind. What is INKIND?

The best way to explain it is: volunteer time, good, services, or other donations

given to the program. By volunteering the classroom, going on field trips, helping

with events, taking home projects from the teacher, donating classroom supplies,

attending various parent trainings and meetings, etc. counts as INKIND. This shows the federal government you want HEAD START in your community.Early Head Start and Head Start is a federally funded program. The federal

government requires Okaloosa County Head Start program to match the funding

received from them by 20%. If we do not obtain our in-kind match that is required we must return 4 times that amount back to the government. This

would affect all areas and we may not be able to provide many extra things, for

instance field trips, parent involvement activities, transportation, and other services

we offer.

We understand parents today are very active with work and/or going to school. Our

program needs your support. If you have any questions of how you can contribute

to our program ask any Okaloosa County Head Start/ Early Head Start Staff

personnel, for we all are responsible for reaching our In-Kind.

Parent Activity Fund Instructions:

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Okaloosa County Comprehensive Head Start Child Development, Inc. has monies

available for parents to participate in an activity. This fund is for parent use only.

Parents will be notified how much money is in the parent activity fund at the

beginning of each school year. The amount may vary from year to year. A Parent

Center Committee can vote to use the monies collectively (all Centers’ monies in

one account) or separately (each individual Center’s monies in separate individual

Center’s account). Note: monies will be divided based on the enrollment size of the

center.

Parents will provide input/suggestions on the use of the parent activity fund at the

beginning of the school year and submit to the Family Services Department. The

results of the suggestions will be reported immediately to the parents after the

Family and Community Partnership Managers compiles all of the suggestions.

Guidelines for the funds are:

1. This fund is for parents use only.

2. The parent activity must be educational.

3. Speakers, training, seminars, conferences, banquets (cost of food and/or

travel could be covered).

4. Trips to museums, or the like, to provide parents with ideas or information for

parent/child activities.

This information can be found on page 170 of the Performance Standards 1304.50(d) (ii

OKALOOSA COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE HEAD START CHILD DEVELOPMENT, INC.

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2012-2013 School Year Calendar

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Day Dates EventMonday-Thursday July 31-August 17, 2012 Teachers Training Days, Home visitMonday-Thursday August 13-17, 2012 Staggered part-day classesMonday/Thursday August 14 and 16, 2012 Parent Orientation

Monday/Tuesday August 6-7 , 2012 Staff OrientationMonday August 20, 2012 First Day All Students/VPK

Monday September 3, 2012 Labor Day HolidayThursday September 6, 2012 Early ReleaseThursday October 4, 2012 Early Release Day

Monday October 22, 2012 Staff Development Day / Student HolidayThursday November 1, 2012 Early Release DayMonday November 12, 2012 Veterans Day HolidayMonday-Friday November 19-23, 2012 Thanksgiving HolidayThursday December 6, 2012 Early Release Day

Friday-Friday December 21-January 4, 2013

Winter Break Holiday

Monday January 7, 2013 Class ResumeThursday January 10, 2013 Early Release

Friday January 18, 2013 Staff Development Day / Student Holiday

Monday January 21, 2013 Martin Luther King Jr. HolidayThursday February 7, 2013 Early Release DayMonday February 18, 2013 President’s Day HolidayThursday March 7, 2013 Early Release DayFriday March 22, 2013 Student Holiday / Staff Dev.

Monday – Friday March 25– 29, 2013 Spring Break HolidaysThursday April 4, 2013 Early Release DayThursday May 2, 2013 Early Release DayMondayThursday

May 27, 2013June 6, 2013

Memorial Day HolidayLast Day for Students

Monday June 10, 2013 Teachers Last Day

Parent Resource Page

Parenting/Childbirth

Breastfeeding and Nutrition Education (WIC)

Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 833-9254Crestview........................................................ 689-7858

Fort Walton Beach Medical Center........................ 862-1111

Prepared childbirth, sibling, infant CPRHealthy Families ..................................... 850-437-1450 ex 5Healthy Start........................................................ 833-9284

Education and support for moms and babies

North Okaloosa Medical Center ............................ 689-8475

Classes for expectant parentsOkaloosa Walton Child Care Service .................. 833-9330

Resource and referral................................ 833-9333

Postpartum Depression...........................1-800-773-6667

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SOZO Life Connection......................................243-5800Teen Age Parent Program (TAPP FWB) .......... 833-3425

TAPP Crestview...............................689-7177 x 8400

Childbirth Education, Sacred Heart EC................. 278-3600Military (Military ID required)

Airman and Family Readiness CenterEglin AFB........................................................ 882-9060Hurlburt Field.................................................. 884-5441

Family AdvocacyEglin AFB........................................................ 883-8616Hurlburt Field.................................................. 881-5061New Parent Support Program

Eglin AFB........................................................ 833-9890

Hurlburt Field.................................................. 881-5256

Family PlanningOkaloosa County Health Department

Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 833-9240

Crestview........................................................ 689-7855

School PhysicalsOkaloosa County Health Department

Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 833-9246

Crestview........................................................ 689-7808

Gulf Coast Immediate Care Center....................... 244-3211

Adoptions/Foster CareCatholic Charities.................................................. 244-

2825

Children's Home Society ....................................... 833-3872Children & Family Services

Foster Care, FWB ...........................................833-3850Adoptions, FWB.....................................................833-3946

Housing

ShelterWaterfront Rescue Mission................................... 796-0700Shelter House - for domestic violence victims....... 863-4777LIFE, Inc. - for pregnant women ............................ 862-9020Coalition for the Homeless/Fresh Start.................. 243-5648Habitat for Humanity.............................................. 315-0025Hope House, Crestview......................................... 682-2374Harvest Vineyard Mission (90 day minimum)........ 682-6447SOZO Life Connection .......................................... 243-5800USDA Rural Development - home loans ............... 682-2416Okaloosa - Walton Homeless................................ 659-3190Fresh Start............................................................. 243-5648Foster Families of America .................................... 423-0488

Housing Authority (Low Income Housing)Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority.................... 243-3224Niceville Housing Authority .................................... 678-7816Crestview Housing Authority.................................. 682-2413Section 8 (HUD), FWB .......................................... 244-5886

Private Housing - SubsidizedChoctaw Village Apartments.................................. 862-4200Wildwood Apartments............................................ 678-7734Oakview Garden Apartments................................. 678-5968Nicewood Garden Apartments............................... 678-5968

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EmploymentLabor Finders........................................................ 243-2699

Daily labor for skilled/unskilled laborers in construction, landscaping, etc. Come to 6B Hollywood Blvd. between5:30-6 a.m. If jobs are available, transportation is provided and payment for work is on a daily basis.

Jobs Plus of FloridaA one-stop center for all employment needs, including vocational counseling, training, testing, job listing and assistance, welfare transition, unemployment compensation information, etc.Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 833-7587

Crestview........................................................ 689-7823

Senior Employment Program.................... 689-7823 ex 220Social Security Administration ..................... 1-800-772-1213Southeastern Vocational Service of Lakeview ...... 609-1046Vocational Rehabilitation

Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 833-9114

Women's Educational Resource CenterNW Florida State College, Niceville ................ 729-5290

Military (Military ID required)Airman & Family Support Center, Eglin AFB...........

882-9060 www.eglinforcesupport.comAirman & Family Support Center, Hurlburt Field..... 884-5441

EducationOkaloosa County School Board ........................ 833-3100Head Start FWB.................................................... 244-2606

Crestview Edney Center ................................. 682-2912Crestview Bay Street Center ........................... 689-3645Niceville.......................................................... 678-8461Laurel Hill ....................................................... 652-4909

Kennedy Center .............................................. 682-1992

Lakeview ......................................................... 682-9531

Early Learning Coalition .................................... 833-3627

Information about early childhood educationTeenAge Parenting Programs (TAPP)

Provides school-based services for pregnant teenagers, including counseling, parenting classes, transportation and child care.TAPP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 833-3425TAPP Crestview ................................. 689-7177 x8400

Adult EducationAdult Literacy Center...................................... 729-5387 "Literacy Cyberspace .................. http://literacy.owc.edu

Women's Educational Resource Center -Support, training and job placement NW Florida StateCollege-Niceville ............................................. 729-5291

Adult Education-NW Florida State College............ 729-5387

Even Start, Crestview............................................ 689-7918Community Education - Pre-

vocational skills such as typing, bookkeeping,

word processing, etc.......................................833-

3206English for Speakers of Other Languages

(ESOL). . . . . . . . .833-3206Colleges, Universities, Vocational-Technical Schools

VO-TECH, FWB ...............................................833-3500Northwest Florida State College

Main Campus, Niceville ..............................678-5111Crestview....................................................689-7911Eglin AFB....................................................678-1717Hurlburt Field ..............................................884-6296Fort Walton Beach......................................863-6500

University of West Florida (UWF)Eglin AFB....................................................678-3727Fort Walton Beach......................................863-6569Hurlburt Field ..............................................884-2723

Troy State University, Florida RegionEglin AFB....................................................678-1865Hurlburt Field ..............................................581-3130FWB ...........................................................301-

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2100S4P Synergy, Inc.

School based mentoring and training...... 862-3899 x100

Information Lines•Abuse Registry (Florida)....................... 1-800-962-2873•Adoption Hotline (Florida) ..................... 1-800-962-3678•AIDS ...................................................... 1-800-FLA-AIDS•AIDS Testing.......................................... 1-850-314-0950•Alcohol Recovery .................................. 1-800-ALCOHOL•Allergy & Immunology ........................... 1-800-822-2762•American Speech/Hearing Assoc.......... 1-800-638-8255•Child Abuse Hotline (National).............. 1-800-422-4453•Child Find, Inc....................................... 1-800-426-5678•Child Support Enforcement ................... 1-800-622-5437•Children's Home Society....................... 1-800-235-BABY•Domestic Violence Hotline.................... 1-800-44ABUSE•Family Health Line................................ 1-800-451-2229

•Families First (Foster Parent Info Line)...1-866-

517-7766•Florida SIDS Alliance ............................ 1-800-743-7352•Financial Services ................................. 1-800-342-2762•Florida Kidcare Insurance ..................... 1-800-821-5437•Job Discrimination ................................. 1-800-342-8170•La Leche International........................... 1-800-LaLeche•Medicaid Information............................. 1-800-303-2422•National Runaway Switchboard...............1-800-RUNAWAY•Parent Helpline...................................... 1-800-FLA-LOVE•Poison Control Nationwide.................... 1-800-222-1222•Post Partum Support International.........1-800-944-4PPD•STD Hotline ........................................... 1-800-227-8922•Stuttering Foundation ............................ 1-800-992-9392•Substance Abuse Information ............... 1-800-662-HELP•Toll Free Information............................. 1-800-555-1212•WIC Program Hotline ............................ 1-800-342-3556

Health CareHealth Care for Pregnancy and Delivery (Obstetrics):

Glenn Bankert, DO, Crestview ...................................................... 689-2223Sergio Cabrera, MD Crestview..................................................... 398-8940Candace Cooley, MD..................................................................... 862-1800Jennifer Esses, MD, Santa Rosa Beach ....................................... 267-2292Eglin Regional Hospital................................................................................... 883-8242Gentle Birth Options, Cindi Debnow, Certified Nurse Midwife....... 279-6778Melinda Graham, MD, Santa Rosa Beach .................................... 267-2961Janet Hamby, MD, Crestview................................................................................... .689-2229Michael Hennessey, MD, FWB .................................................... 243-2229Kimberly Hood, MD, Santa Rosa Beach ....................................... 267-2961Maria Milton, Licensed Midwife, Flowersview........................ 850-834-2946

Kathryn Stevens, MD, Donald Whitaker, MD FWB....................... 863-1000David Stoneking, DO, FWB…………………………………………………… 863-8264Jennifer Seaton, MD, FWB............................................................ 326-6435Health Care for W omen (Gynecology) Bankert & Hood, Crestview ...........................................................689-2223Robert Caputo, MD, Crestview......................................................398-8873Sergio Cabrerra, MD, Crestview....................................................398-8940John Carlson, MD, Crestview…………………………………………………682-8485Candace Cooley, MD, FWB...........................................................862-1800Jennifer Esses, MD, Santa Rosa Beach .......................................267-2292Janet Hamby, MD, Crestview ........................................................689-2229Michael Hennessey, MD, FWB ......................................................243-2229Kimberly Hood, MD, Santa Rosa Beach .......................................267-2961Lisa Judge, M.D, Niceville. ............................................................729-1414Strick Mays, MD. Crestview...........................................................683-1100Karl Metz, MD, FWB......................................................................863-8222

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Thomas Moraczewski, MD, FWB ..................................................862-5618Ann Nguyen, MD, FWB, Destin .....................................................837-0576

Maureen Thompson, M.D., Niceville .............................................897-7277Kathryn Stevens, MD, Donald Whitaker, MD, FWB.......................863-1000David Stoneking, DO, FWB ...........................................................863-8264Jennifer Seaton, MD, FWB............................................................3 2 6 - 6 4 3 5Health Care for Children (Pediatrics)Children's Clinic, Crestview................................................................................................................ 689-0555

Doctors: Rick Lujan, Sharon RosenbergSusanna Buchholz, MD………………………………………………………… 269-6400Pediatrics of Okaloosa, Niceville ................................................... 678-9009 Doctors: Tracey Burton and Lynn KeefeWhite Wilson Pediatrics, FWB....................................................... 863-8203 Doctors: Lawrence King, Keith Krist, Andrea Loder, Douglas Rigby,

Robert SheltonWhite-Wilson Medical Center, Destin.......................................................................... 837-3848

Doctors: Paul Allen and Marilyn SprenkleCrestview Pediatrics ...................................................................... 683-5100

Joseph Peter, MDWhite Wilson Medical Center, Niceville........................................897-4400 Doctors: Kyle Simmers, Lalitha Vadlamani-Simmers and Hilary StampSusie FitzHarris, MD, Destin.........................................................837-0032Health Care for FamiliesCharles Barniv, MD, Destin........................................................... ……837-5181Magnolia Medical Clinic, FWB....................................................... 243-7681

Doctors: Bill Buckelew, A.B. Russell, John Sites and Peter Senechal

White Wilson Medical Center, Niceville......................................... …………….897-4400

Doctors: Ann Gwinnup, Terry Payne, Andrew YangWhite Wilson Medical Center, FWB............................................... 863-6600

Doctors: Christopher Hansen, Timothy Tuel, Erica SaintilusJohn Chomer, MD.......................................................................... 863-4700Marcene Kreifels, MD, Crestview..................................................................................... 892-2266Claudia Molina, MD, Destin…………………………………………………..... 837-5562Karen Reezes, MD, Destin ............................................................ 837-9064Pat Tidwell, MD, Niceville........................................................................................................ 678-6735N. Florida Medical Centers - Sliding scale fees, Crestview…………682-1164Baker ............................................................................................. 537-2700

Military Family Services Child Care

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NOTE: A Military ID is required for all services offered by the Air Force or other military service.

Family Advocacy Program - Programs include: Exceptional Family Member Program - for members with physical, emotional or educational needs. Family Advocacy Outreach Program for prevention of family maltreatment and exceptional medical or educational conditions.New Parent Support Program - nursing services, counseling and education for families with newborns or expecting a baby

Eglin AFB................................................... 883-8616Hurlburt Field ............................................. 881-5061

Airman & Family Readiness Center - Information, referral, family skills, marriage enrichment, parenting, stress management, financial services, crisis parenting, employment assistance.

Eglin AFB.................................................. 882-9060Hurlburt Field………………………………………….. 884-5441

Legal ServicesLegal Services of North Florida................................................... 862-3279Child Support Enforcement .........................1-800-622-5437Public Defender, Criminal Cases........................... 651-7350Guardian Ad Litem, Shalimar................................. 651-5467

Boys and Girls Clubs ............................................. 862-1616Child Care Resource and Referral ........................ 833-9333Day Care Licensor................................................. 833-3800Head Start - preschool for low income children

Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 244-5421

Crestview........................................................................ 682-2912

A Family's Future, Inc., Shalimar ........................... 651-5339

For low income, single parentsOkaloosa-Walton Child Care Services, FWB............ 833-9330

Crestview...................................................................... 689-7885

Early Learning Coalition ........................................ 833-3627Military (Military ID required)Eglin Child Development Center ........................... 882-7425Hurlburt Child Development Center....................... 884-6664

Transport

ationOkaloosa Coordinated Transportation - Medicaid approved.

Must call 24 hours in advance to schedule ride.Fort Walton Beach .............................................

833-9168Crestview...........................................................

689-7809The Wave, .50 cents per ride (FWB, Destin).....

…...833-9168 The Wave Express, $1.50 per ride.................................... 833-9168

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ClothingFood

Emergency FoodOakland Assembly of God Food Bank................... 244-1222Sharing and Caring - food, clothes, etc.

Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 244-0778Niceville........................................................... 729-3600Crestview........................................................ 682-1134

Salvation Army - emergency needs, food, lodgingFort Walton Beach .......................................... 243-4531

Striving for Perfection Ministries ............................ 862-3899Waterfront Rescue Mission, FWB ........................ 244-2726

Crestview........................................................ 689-2700Harvest House, Destin........................................... 837-2277Nutrition and Breastfeeding ServicesLa Leche League................................................... 420-3900

Michelle...............................................................................................................................................................................................729-2477Anne................................................................ 699-2018Amy................................................................................................................................................................................................... 729-1838

Lactation Consultants - Support and help with breastfeeding.Carol Durham, Eglin AFB................................ 883-8001

House calls ............................................. 897-3774Regina Humphreys, Sacred Heart EC ............ 278-3995Betty Liles, Okaloosa Health Dept......................... 833-9259

WIC, FWB.............................................................. 833-9254WIC, Crestview ............................................. 689 7858

Sharing and Caring, FWB...................................... 244-0778Niceville........................................................... 729-3600Crestview............................................................................. 682-1134

Family Life Center - for mom and baby............................ 243-5800LIFE, Inc. ............................................................... 862-9020Catholic Charities - baby clothes ........................... 244-2825Salvation Army....................................................... 243-4531Waterfront Rescue Mission...................................... 244-2726Crestview Pregnancy Center................................. 682-1011Goodwill Industries

FWB ................................................................ 864-6677Destin........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 837-8516Valparaiso ....................................................... 729-2334

Harvest House....................................................... 837-2277

Military (Military ID required)Eglin Thrift Shop .................................................... 678-4726Hurlburt Thrift Shop............................................... ……………884-3098See Thrift Shops or Consignment Services in Yellow Pages.

Need $$$ If you are unemployed, uninsured or low income, you may be eligible for financial assistance or Medicaid.

Children and Family ServicesThe Florida System of Children and Family Services is your one-stop eligibility screening center for all available economic and medical services. Services include food stamps, Medicaid eligibility, well baby care, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Department of Children and Families Access Florida Line..........................................1-866-762-2237

Or go online to www.dcf.state.fl.us/ess or www.myflorida.com/accessflorida

Jobs Plus (job training and placement)Fort Walton Beach .........................................................................................................833-7587Crestview...................................................................................................................... .689-7823

Child Support Enforcement.................................................................................... 1-800-622-5437Medicaid Eligibility for Pregnant Women ....................................................... 1-800-303-2422

Okaloosa County Health Department221 Hospital Drive, FWB ...............................................................................................833-9240810 E. James Lee Blvd., Crestview .............................................................................689-7855

Emergency NeedsCatholic Charities ............................................................................... 243-3959 or 244--2825S4P Synergy, Inc ............................................................................................. 862-3899 x100Local Churches.........................................................................See Yellow Pages for Listings

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Counseling Support GroupsMental Health/Substance Abuse Counseling

Bridgeway Center…………………………………………… 833-7500

Substance abuse/mental health counselingBridgeway Drug/Alcohol ........................................ 833-

9193Crestview............................................................... 689-7845

Bridgeway Children's Services .............................. 833-7400

Bridgeway Assessment & Therapy ........................ 833-7400

Crestview (group therapy)............................... 689-7810Catholic Charities............................................................... 244-2825

Specialized pregnancy counseling, marriage and family counseling.

Children's Home Society ....................................... 833-3872Teenage pregnancy counseling, adoption services

crisis counselingFort Walton Beach Medical Center........................862-1111Life Inc. ..................................................................862-9020Lakeview Center, Shalimar.................................... 609-1040Lutheran Services.................................................. 664-0145

Mental Health Association ..................................... 244-1040

Turning Point Center, for mental health.................243-8086Genetic Counseling

Rick Lujan, MD.................................................. 689-0555For more complete listing, see "Counselors - HumanRelations" in Yellow Pages

Alcoholics Anonymous...........................................244-2421Battered Women's Support Group....................... .243-1201

Shelter House Hotline............................................ 863-4777CHADD........................................................1-800-233-4050

Parents of Children with Attention Deficit DisorderOASIS (AIDS)........................................................314-0950

Post Partum Depression.............................. 1-800-773-6667Waterfront Rescue Mission Drug and Alcohol Program

(6 month program) .......................................... 796-0708

Breastfeeding Counseling and SupportLa Leche League...................................................420-3900

Michelle.................................................................................................................................................................................................729-

2477Anne................................................................699-2018

Amy…………………………………………………………. 729-1838

WIC, FWB.............................................................. 833-9254WIC, Crestview...................................................... 689-7858

For more complete and current support group listings, see the Calendar section of the Northwest Florida Daily News, or call the Crisis Line, 244-9191.

Hospitals/Clinics

Shots)NOTE: Shots are given at the Health Department on a walk-in basis. The immunization hours: Mornings: Monday thru Friday,7:30-10:30 a.m. Afternoons: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday,12:30-3:30 p.m. Tuesday 12:30-5:00p.m. Closed Friday p.m.

FWB..............................................................833-9240 Crestview........................................................... 689-7855

Children's Clinic, Crestview................................... 689-0555Hospitals

FWB Medical Center .............................................. 862-1111 (Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)

North Okaloosa Medical Center ............................ 689-8100

Twin Cities Hospital ...............................................678-4131Eglin Regional Hospital......................................... 883-8242

Sacred Heart of the Emerald Coast.............1-866-591-3600Sacred Heart Hospital, Pensacola............... 1-850-416-7000Clinics

Baker Family Medical Center................................ 537-2700Children's Clinic, Crestview................................... 689-0555

Children's Volunteer Health Network......................622-3200 K-12th grade enrolled in free or reduced lunch program may

receive medical, dental or mental health assistanceCrestview Health Center........................................ 682-1164Destin Medical Center, Destin ............................... 837-5181

Gulf Coast Immediate Care, FWB ......................... 244-

3211Magnolia Medical Center, FWB............................. 243-7681

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Milton Memorial Birthing Center, Flowersview...........................................1-850-834-2946

Regional Prenatal Center............................1-850-416-2477 (For high-risk pregnancies)

Seton Center - Pensacola................................ ......850-416-2400White-Wilson Medical Center.................................... ………863-8100Niceville.............................................................. ……………………...897-4400Destin................................................................. ……………837-3848White-Wilson Immediate Care............................. 863-8219SOZO Life Connection......................................... ………243-5800

(STD Testing & Treatment)Okaloosa County Health DepartmentFort Walton Beach

Main Number, FWB.............................................833-9240Appointments, FWB......................................... ………………………...833-9246

Women, Infants, Children (WIC) FWB .............833-9254Information, FWB .............................................864-8614

Vital Statistics (birth certificates) ......................864-7611Environmental Health (sanitary conditions)..... ...833-9247

CrestviewMain Number, Crestview.................................. 689-7855Appointments, Crestview ................................. 689-7808

Women, Infants, Children (WIC), Crestview.... 689-7858Environmental Health (sanitary conditions)..... 689-7859

InsuranceFL Kid Care - Affordable Children’s' Health Insurance

FL Toll Free........................................... 1-800-821-5437Mom Care.............................................................. …………………...833-9240

Special insurance for prenatal care

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Special Needs Child Protective Investigations

Fort Walton Beach ............................................. 833-3800Crestview........................................................... 689-7777Niceville ............................................................. 833-9237Abuse Registry.......................................1-800-96ABUSE

Children's Center (Horizons) - preschoolers age 0-5, handicapped and non handicapped who need basic day care................................... 244-9187

Children's Medical Services (CMS) - for children under21 with chronic conditions, whose physical functions and movements are impaired as a result of accident, disease or birth defect and whose families cannot afford treatment. ......................... 1-800-381-3685

Early StepsScreening, for evaluation and referral for children up to 36 months whose development is delayed or who have an established condition. Located at Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola............................................ 1-800-281-1845

Emerald Coast Children's Advocacy Center......833-9237Horizons Birth to Three Programs - for those at risk

for developmental delays, including substance exposed babies.................................................. 244-9187

Pediatric Therapy Center, FWB - physical and speech therapy, for ages 1-18 ........................................ 862-7227

People with Disabilities.......................................833-3753SSI (Supplemental Security Income) - income for those

who are disabled and cannot work .........1-866-331-2194United Cerebral Palsy of NW FL......................... 863-9833

Family AssistanceAlcoholics Anonymous......................................... 244-2421

American Cancer Society..................................... 244-3813American Diabetes Association- .................1-800-342-2383American Lung Association......................1-800-LUNGUSA American Red Cross .............................................682-3356

Big Brothers/Big Sisters ........................................ 664-5437

Catholic Charities.................................................. ………………………...244-2825

Children's Home Society ....................................... 833-3872

Child Support Enforcement .........................1-800-622-5437Elder Services of Okaloosa County ...................... 833-9165Emerald Coast Children's Advocacy Center .........833-9237Epilepsy Services of NW Florida........................... 315-0000Families Count Resource Center................1-850-437-1450

Help with rent, utilities and basic baby itemsAirman and Family Readiness, Eglin AFB .................882-

9060Airman and Family Readiness, Hurlburt Field ...........884-5441Florida State Blind Services....................... 1-850-595-5282Fresh Start ............................................................243-5648Guardian Ad Litem - children's advocate in court .651-7127

Good Will Easter Seals......................................... 302-0576Healthy Families .........................................1-850-437-1450

Healthy Start Coalition ....................................... 833-9284

Hope House - Runaway Teens............................. 682-2374Horizons of Okaloosa County ............................... 863-

1530Pathway (substance abuse) ................................. 609-1004

Legal Services of North Florida............................. 862-3279LIFE, Inc. - for crisis pregnancy............................. 862-9020Lutheran Services.................................................. 664-0145March of Dimes, Gulf Coast Division.............. 850-785-6460Mental Health Association ..................................... 244-1040

Okaloosa AIDS Support and Information (OASIS).... 314-0950Okaloosa Coordinated Transportation

Fort Walton Beach ............................................. 833-9168Crestview........................................................... 689-7809

Okaloosa - Walton Homeless................................ 409-3070Ronald McDonald House (Pensacola) - for parents needing

a place to stay while child is in hospital...1-850-477-CARE

U F Extension Service - Information on farming, FL lawn care, bugs, money management, 4-H, health and nutria

tion and more ....................................................689-5850Children and Youth Services

YMCA - FWB.................................................................... 863-9622Valparaiso.................................................................. 678-7733Early Learning Coalition of Okaloosa-Walton ................... 833-

3627Department of Juvenile Justice, FWB ..............................833-3906

Crestview...................................................................689-7980

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Okaloosa County Head Start/Early Head Start Parent Handbook Receipt

OCHS/EHS staff review and discuss with parents the program information, topics, rules, policies

and procedures contained in the OCHS/EHS Parent Handbook.  The handbook is an important

resource and reference for OCHS/EHS families throughout the program year.  The handbook

contains information that can benefit families both during and after their experience with Head

Start.  All of this information is important, and is contained in the parent handbook:

I. OCHS/EHS Site InformationII. Introduction to Head StartIII. Early childhood Education ServicesIV. Family ServiceV. Health ServicesVI. Mental Health Services

VII. Nutrition ServicesVIII. Services for Children with Special Needs

IX. Transportation – Safety Education for Children and ParentsX. OCHS/EHS Policies & ProceduresXI. Communication System

XII. Classroom Schedule XIII. Rights and Responsibilities of OCHS/EHS ParentsXIV. Parent Code of ConductXV. Parent Involvement/IN-KindXVI. Parent Resource

Child’s name:                                                                                           

My signature is verification that I have received the OCHS/EHS Parent Handbook, and have read or

been advised of all of the information contained in the sections listed above.  I am aware of and agree

to abide by the rules, policies and procedure contained in the OCHS/EHS Parent Handbook.   

Parent/GuardianSignature: __________________       Date: _______                              

Staff Signature: ______________   Classroom/Center:  _______

Step 1: Copy to Parents/Teachers         Step 2: FSS/Copy in child’s comprehensive file

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