Questions and Answers!
Your Training Resource

In Sickness and Health: Developing a Positive Body Image

Are many preschool children overweight? A national survey found that 23 percent (one in four) of preschool age children is either overweight, or at risk for being overweight.

How can caregivers help children develop positive body images? Promote an appreciation of diversity and differences; choose dolls or action figures with more realistic body images; look for books that promote self-image and self-esteem; model healthy behavior.

How does adult dieting affect children? Caregivers should model an appreciation and acceptance of their own body image. Avoid talk of “dieting”; instead, model healthy eating behavior.

Safety First: Safe Toy Play for Toddlers

What are safety considerations for art materials? Materials such as paint, crayons, markers, and modeling clay should be non-toxic.

What items should be avoided due to choking or suffocation hazards? Balloons (the worst offender), Styrofoam peanuts, small pebbles, dried bans, corn meal, flour and toys with small parts.

It is okay to use food as an art material? It is not recommended for toddlers.

What does “UL Approved” mean (label on electrical toys)? This label designates toys that have been tested and approved by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for safety.

Nutrition Action: Snack Time and Food Memories

Can I try new foods at snack time? Yes! The smaller portions for snack time are a good way to introduce new foods.

Can children help prepare snacks? Yes. Be sure to follow sanitation guidelines (hand washing, etc.).

How can snack time enhance the curriculum? Serve foods from countries you are studying; try foods from various cultures; count the crackers to include math; etc.

Medicine Chest: Administering Medications in Childcare

What are some risks in giving medications? Medicine may be given to the wrong child, or the wrong dose may be given.

Can over-the-counter medicines be given to children (such as acetaminophen)? Only if the parents have authorized the medication for their child and for the specific situation or illness.

Can I use a cooking measuring spoon to measure dosage? No. Medicines should be measured using an instrument designed for medication (dosage cup, medication syringe, medication spoon).

How should I store medications? Keep medications in the original container, with childproof caps. Store in a locked cabinet, out of children’s reach (or in refrigerator, if necessary).

Health and You: Are You Getting Enough ZZZZZs?

How much sleep do most adults need? 7-8 hours per night.

What is insomnia? Insomnia includes taking a long time to fall asleep, waking frequently, waking too early and unable to go back to sleep.

What is sleep apnea? This is a serious sleep disorder with momentary interruptions in breathing during sleep. It is often associated with people who are overweight.

What substances can affect sleeping? Avoid caffeine or alcohol before bedtime. Some medications can affect sleep habits.