This year’s World Health Day, with its theme “My health, my right,” reminds us of the importance of fostering healthy habits in children. As childcare providers, we play a crucial role in nurturing this right!
Supercharge your World Health Day with these downloadable resources:
Healthy Eating Pack:
Packed with tips on promoting healthy choices, managing allergies, and engaging children in fun food activities.
Lunchtime Learning Plans:
Transform lunchtimes into learning adventures with simple and engaging activities.
Healthy Living Display:
Create an eye-catching display with visuals and information about healthy habits.
Outdoor Play Activity Ideas:
This FREE Resource is packed with inspiration to get children playing and learning outdoors!
“Please KEEP your child at HOME if…” Poster:
Remind parents to keep sick children home to prevent the spread of illness.
Feelings & Emotions Activity Pack:
Help children explore and understand their emotions.
All About Me Workbook:
Encourage self-discovery and celebrate individuality.
Empowering Healthy Habits Through Daily Routines:
More ideas to integrate healthy practices into your daily childcare routine:
Fueling Young Bodies:
- Nutrition Champions: Follow national guidelines when planning balanced meals and snacks. Partner with parents by offering healthy packed lunch suggestions and recipe ideas.
- Exploratory Eaters: Encourage children to explore a rainbow of fruits and vegetables. Offer opportunities to taste new foods and participate in age-appropriate food preparation (washing produce, setting the table). Consider creating a “mystery veggie” game where children guess a hidden vegetable by taste and touch.
- Garden to Table: Plant a small herb or vegetable garden with children. Involve them in the care process and celebrate the harvest by incorporating homegrown produce into meals.
Moving and Grooving:
- Active Play All Day: Schedule regular physical activity sessions both indoors and outdoors. Integrate movement into learning activities – sing action songs, create obstacle courses with learning materials, or have dance parties with educational music.
- Nature Play Champions: Make outdoor time a priority. Plan nature walks, scavenger hunts, or outdoor art projects to get children moving and appreciating the natural world.
Healthy Habits from Head to Toe:
- Germs Be Gone!: Teach children about hygiene, germs, and infection prevention. Make handwashing fun with catchy songs or visual aids. Remind parents of your illness policy and the importance of keeping sick children at home.
- Brush Buddies: Promote good oral hygiene with engaging toothbrushing programs and fun brushing charts.
- Building Independence: Encourage children to do things for themselves whenever possible – dressing, using the toilet, or serving their own snacks. This fosters self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment.
Nurturing the Mind:
- Safe Space for Feelings: Create a safe and nurturing environment where children feel comfortable expressing their emotions. Encourage open communication and provide opportunities for them to learn about and build healthy coping mechanisms.
- Self-Esteem Superstars: Help children build self-esteem through positive reinforcement, celebrating accomplishments, and creating opportunities for them to showcase their unique talents and personalities.
World Health Day: Every Day Matters
World Health Day is a launchpad for focusing on children’s well-being. Let’s create a generation of happy, healthy individuals together!