Citation

Wallinga C, Coleman M, Bales D. Dimensions of early childhood 2007; 35(2): 25-31.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Southern Association on Children Under Six)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

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Abstract

Dramatic improvements have been made in the lives of children over the last century. Even so, many health and safety challenges remain unresolved. For example, unintentional injuries claim the lives of more children each year than any other cause of death. In addition, a panel of pediatricians reported that the incidence of childhood obesity doubled in the past two decades. Fortunately, both unintentional injuries and obesity, as well as other health and safety problems, are often linked to preventable behaviors and environmental situations that can be addressed through health education. For early childhood teachers, this provides a unique opportunity to collaborate with community workers. This article suggests ways in which community workers can collaborate with early childhood teachers to help children develop healthy and safe behaviors. It is divided into three sections that reflect the questions asked during health and safety trainings for early childhood trainers and teachers: (1) Why call upon community workers when teaching health and safety?; (2) Which community workers can help with health and safety activities?; and (3) How can staff work with community workers to ensure a meaningful educational experience for young children?

Language: en