In Sickness & Health: Tetanus

Is tetanus preventable? Yes.

How do people get tetanus? Tetanus bacteria are found in the soil, and can enter the body through a wound.

What kind of wounds are most dangerous? Any puncture wound, deep or jagged wounds, or any wound that cannot be completely cleaned.

How often should children and adults get tetanus shots? Tetanus is part of the normal childhood immunization program. Adults should get tetanus boosters at least every 10 years.

Safety First: Safety Checklists

What are some national documents with safety criteria? NAEYC Accreditation, Caring for our Children, Head Start Performance Standards.

Where can you find safety recommendations or criteria? State licensing department, local health department, Fire Marshall.

Where might I find available checklists? Your local childcare resource and referral agency (CCR & R) or childcare licensing department

Are checklists required? Not usually, but they are helpful for training or monitoring the quality and safety of the childcare environment.

Nutrition Action: Proteins in Children's Diets

What do proteins do in the body? Proteins are needed for growth, regulation of hormones, control of metabolism, and repair of body cells.

What foods have the most protein? Meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products have complete proteins.

Can vegetarians get enough protein? Yes, but they must combine foods to get all the essential amino acids in proteins.

What if a child doesn't like meat? Continue to serve a variety of foods, including meats, fish, poultry, and dairy products. Try serving meats prepared in various ways to find something the child likes.

Medicine Chest: Physical, Occupational, and Speech-Language Therapies

How do Physical Therapists help children? They help children with gross motor function and movement such as walking, crawling, and jumping.

What do Occupational Therapists do? Occupational therapy helps children develop skills for everyday living, such as fine motor skills, feeding skills, etc.

What type of services might a speech-language pathologist provide? Screening and diagnosis of speech disorders or language disorders. If necessary, they can provide treatment and counseling for the families.

What is the difference between speech and language disorders? Speech disorders include problems such as making sounds, stuttering, or voice. Language disorders involve communication problems such as understanding or communicating with verbal, written, sign language, etc.

Health & You: Bon Voyage! Have a Fun and Safe Vacation

What are some precautions to take before you leave home? Stop your mail and deliveries, put lights on timers, make sure doors and windows are locked, activate a security system, make arrangements for pets, etc.

If flying, what should I carry on the plane? All medications and supplies, as well as contact information for medical personnel.

How can I prevent motion sickness? Ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend either an over-the-counter medication or prescription medication. Do not read or look down while moving; sit in the front seat of the vehicle; don't overeat.

What are some hotel safety precautions? Park in a well-lighted area, lock the car, avoid adjoining rooms, know where the fire escapes and exits are, lock your doors.