This training guide is intended to improve the skills of Head Start staff and families in dealing with communicable diseases. The guide addresses attitudes toward communicable diseases, how to reduce the spread of disease, and how to recognize and manage illnesses more effectively. The guide consists of six working sections. The first three are training modules. Each module details learning opportunities, expected outcomes, key concepts, background information, questions for discussion and reflection, activities, points to consider, and next steps. Module 1 addresses understanding communicable diseases, and includes experience with and understanding of communicable diseases, working with people of diverse beliefs, and how communicable diseases spread. Module 2 addresses preventing communicable diseases, and includes hand washing, gloving, checking on infection control, and fresh air. Module 3 addresses recognizing and managing communicable diseases. Topics addressed include daily health checks, managing communicable diseases, and assessing ill children. The fourth section of the guide addresses continuing professional development issues to help Head Start staff develop their skills in preventing, recognizing, managing and learning about communicable diseases. The fifth section contains resources including books, manuals, videos, newsletters, and national organizations. The sixth section is an appendix of fact sheets on communicable diseases ranging from chicken pox to tuberculosis. (SD)