Using head start centers for teaching mental health promotion

Health promotion is an integral aspect of nursing practice and should be included in all levels of nursing education. A practicum focusing on mental health promotion at the undergraduate level is described. Nursing students observe and interact with children in Head Start centers and during home visits with Head Start families. Head Start programs are used because they offer students an opportunity to practice nursing in a setting that is committed to health promotion and that serves a high-risk population. The nature of the practicum, its congruence with current trends in nursing and nursing education, its relevance to current mental health concerns, and its limitations are described.