36. Describe four ways that teachers can creatively involve families in a classroom unit on oral health.
A newsletter describing planned activities can be sent home prior to the unit. Families can be
recruited to assist with classroom activities (tooth brushing), accompany the class on field
trips (dental office), or share a skill or special information (about good nutrition) with the
children. Families can also be asked to help prepare bulletin boards, a website, blog, or
podcast that can be posted as a resource for all parents to access.
Family Involvement in Health and Safety Education
hsn.maro.10.11.01 – Describe the benefits of including families in children’s learning
experiences.
United States – NAEYC.02 – Building family and community relationships.
United States – NHES.02 – Students will analyze the influence of family, peers, culture,
media, technology, and other factors on health behavior.
37. Name three factors that reduce or interfere with the quality of children’s health.
Factors such as food insecurity and/or unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity,
exposure to pollution, stress, or violence, poverty, lack of adequate medical or dental care,
and substance abuse can lessen the quality of children’s health.
United States – NAEYC.01 – Promoting child development and learning.
United States – NHES.01 – Students will comprehend concepts related to health promotion
and disease prevention to enhance health.
38. Why are the early years an ideal time to provide children with health and safety education?
Young children spend much of their time gathering information and imitating the practices of
others. They tend to be more open and receptive to new ideas and values concerning health
because they are not as burdened by unhealthy habits and inaccurate information as are many
adults.