Health

• Hand washing
Hand washing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections. Make sure that teachers are washing their hands after they change a diaper or toilet a child. Children should wash their own hands after toileting. It’s not a bad idea to get in the habit of washing the hands of infants and toddlers after diaper changes too, since hands can stray into the diaper area or pick up germs from the changing table. Hands should also be washed before and after handling food and/or eating, after wiping a nose, before and after using a water or sensory table, after playing outside, and any other time it seems prudent to do so to prevent the spread of infection.

• Sanitizing toys and equipment
Small toys can be sanitized in mesh bags in a dishwasher. If you don’t have a dishwasher or are sanitizing larger toys, you can use a bleach solution of 1 TBS of bleach to 1 quart of water. This solution needs to be made fresh daily since it loses its potency after 24 hours. You can make this solution in a spray bottle to spray on larger toys and equipment. For full sanitizing effectiveness, let dry for 3 minutes and do not rinse. Changing tables and toilets can also be sanitized with this same solution. Infant and toddler toys that are mouthed, should be set aside to be washed once the child is finished playing with them. Other toys should be sanitized at the end of the day or sooner if noticeably soiled. Children’s nap belongings should be laundered weekly or sooner if soiled. Clothes for dramatic play should be laundered every 2-4 weeks or more often, if needed.

• Immunizations and physical examinations
Before children are allowed to attended your home or program you should have a copy of all their immunizations on file. Also a physical examination should be done and form completed within 60 days of start date. Any questions on immunizations should be directed to the parent immediately and cleared with a doctor’s note. Physical Examination forms should be complete with all the child’s information including screening or assessments that have been done. Take care to read carefully so you do not miss any history of hospitalizations or allergies of any sort. Again, if you’re not sure, do not be afraid to ask the parents. The more you know as the provider, the better QUALITY CARE you can give to the child.

• Your program’s health policy
Make sure that you establish a health policy and that parents know what it is. Post it prominently so that all can review as needed throughout the year. Some providers copy page 45 directly out of the licensing book and post that page so there are no questions. Be sure to review your policy with employees so that all are aware of the health policy in place.

• Administration of medication
Many programs are taking a second look at their policy of administering medications, since we are not licensed nurses to administer medications and accidents or mix-ups can occur. If your program chooses to administer medications, make sure you review the licensing standards found on p. 46 and 47. (He-C 4002.20)

• Cleanliness
One of the first things parents will say they want in a quality child care environment for their child is cleanliness. Take care to make sure that any space used by children and families is cleaned on a regular basis. Check surfaces, floors, walls, door handles, and corners. Parents notice a fresh, clean smell. Clean areas rather than covering up odors with sprays (except possibly after diaper changes, but use sparingly since sprays are not that healthy for children either). Never burn candles while children are present.