In Sickness & Health: Chickenpox (Varicella)

Is chickenpox dangerous? It can be. Most cases are mild, but the virus can have serious complications.

Can chickenpox be prevented? Yes. There is an effective vaccine

Is there a cure for chickenpox? No. Chickenpox is caused by a virus, so antibiotics are not effective in treating the disease.

How long is a child contagious? An infected person is contagious 24-48 hours before the rash appears, and until all the blisters have completely scabbed over. This takes about two weeks.

Safety: The Great Escape & Supervision

Do children purposely try to escape? Not usually. Children are easily distracted and may wander off.

What are times of increase escape risk? Arrival and departure times, transition between activities, field trips, and emergency situations.

Are security systems necessary? Security systems not only prevent children from slipping out unnoticed, but also provide an alert to someone entering the area. A simple system such as loud door chimes can help provide security.

What do I do if a child is missing? Maintain supervision of all other children; call for the child and begin to look in likely places; if not immediately found, contact emergency assistance (police) and parents to help look for the child.

Nutrition Action: Vitamin D the Sunshine Vitamin

Why is vitamin D called the “sunshine vitamin?” Vitamin D is produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight.

How does vitamin D help the body? Vitamin D helps bodies absorb calcium, and is needed for bone growth, strength, and structure.

What problems can be caused by lack of vitamin D? Children lacking Vitamin D can develop rickets; a failure of bone to mineralize.

Can children get Vitamin D from food? Vitamin D is added to many foods, such as milk products, orange juice, and cereals.

Medicine Chest: Bouncing Back--Resiliency

What is resiliency? Resiliency is the ability to cope with stressors, challenges, and situations in life.

How can caregivers promote resiliency in children? Provide opportunities for exploration and problem-solving; role model.

What are some risk factors for children? Poverty, stress, poor medical care, violence, abuse, and lack of support.

How can I create a more supportive environment? Create a “family friendly” environment so that children feel secure. Make their spaces warm, cozy, and inviting.

Health & You: Flexibility Exercise & the Childcare Provider

What is flexibility? Flexibility is the ability or measure of a joint to move through a full range of motion.

Why are some people more flexible than others? Flexibility is impacted by factors such as age, sex, heredity, posture, and physical conditions such as arthritis.

How far should I stretch when exercising? Stretch to the point where you feel tightness, but not pain or discomfort.

Should I bounce in order to stretch further? No. Bouncing can cause injury.