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27.5: Key Environment Elements- Health

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    142389

    • Amanda Taintor
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    Health

    A healthy environment decreases the possibility of contracting and spreading illness and enhances infants' and toddlers' overall well-being (Lally, Stewart, & Greenwald, 2009).[1]

    Health concerns must be an integral part of routine care practices, such as washing hands, using gloves, and washing toys. Even well-designed environments that meet the highest standards still require an attentive caregiver to remain healthy. In some cases, staff may need training on the specialized procedures for the health care needs of a child or on making special physical accommodations.[2] Programs should follow a routine schedule of cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting products should not be used near children, and adequate ventilation should be maintained during use.[3]

    young toddler with hands in sink and water on
    Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): Washing hands must be part of routine care to maintain a healthy environment. ([1])

    [1] U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: Administration for Children and Families. (n.d.). Nurturing Environments. is in the public domain.

    [2] California Department of Education. (2019). Infant/Toddler Learning and Development Program Guidelines, Second Edition. Sacramento: California Department of Education. Is used with permission.

    [3] U.S Department of Health and Human Services: Administration for Children & Families. Routine cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. ECLKC. Is in the public domain

    [4] Image by Amanda Taintor is licensed CC BY-NC

    This page titled 27.5: Key Environment Elements- Health is shared under a mixed 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Amanda Taintor.