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Heath and Safety

The Foundation of Quality Childcare

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When families choose childcare, nothing matters more than knowing their child is safe, healthy and cared for. In Indiana, health and safety is the foundation of quality early learning.

Research shows that early learning programs play a major role in providing early developmental opportunities that lay a foundation for children’s academic success, health and general well-being. Because children spend time in childcare, these programs are also on the front lines of public health, helping children stay safe, build healthy routines and thrive developmentally.

Health & Safety in Childcare

Health and safety in childcare means creating an environment where children can learn, grow and explore without unnecessary risk. It goes beyond preventing harm and supports the whole child.

For Indiana programs, health and safety includes:

  • Safe Spaces & Supervision

    Children are protected from injury through:

    • Safe buildings and playgrounds
    • Close supervisions and appropriate staff-to-child ratios
    • Hazard-free environments
  • Clean & Healthy Environments

    Good health starts with everyday routines that stop the spread of germs. This includes:

    • Handwashing and sanitation
    • Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces
    • Safe diapering and toileting practices
  • Preventing Illness & Supporting Wellness

    Healthy and safety also means helping children stay well by:

    • Following immunization and health guidelines
    • Managing illness and medications safely
    • Supporting nutrition, rest and physical activity
  • Safe Relationships & Emotional Well-Being

    Health and safety is not just physical. It also includes:

    • Positive interactions between adults and children
    • Support for emotional development
    • Environments where children feel heard, safe and cared for

Health and safety are the starting points for everything else in early learning. When children feel safe, they are more likely to explore and learn, build strong relationships with caregivers and develop skills that support school readiness and lifelong success! Childcare programs like yours do more than supervise children; they protect their well-being and help them grow into healthy, thriving learners.

There are several tools and resources available to providers to help create and maintain safe and healthy environments for children. Check those out here!