Daily Health Checks
Observe them for signs of illness and ask about symptoms.
What is the first thing you should do when a child arrives at the classroom?
1. Staff gathers children to evacuate; count heads. a. Grab the Ready-To-Go files and emergency kit which includes the first aid kits, any medical supplies such as children’s medication. b. Make sure you have each child’s emergency information. 2. Evacuate as practiced using planned route. If blocked, use secondary evacuation route. a. Children who can walk hold walking rope and follow the teacher or designated staff and volunteer person to evacuation spot. b. Gather children at designated meeting place as needed. 3. Calm the children. Communicate necessary information to families. Ensure children and adults are drinking water and eating. 4. Staff and volunteer members take head count and attendance to ensure all children and adults are safely evacuated. If a child or adult is missing, alert first responders. a. Develop a plan for the release of children which include safeguards to prevent the inappropriate release of a child to an unauthorized person. 5. Wait for all clear before returning to building.
What is are the steps when evacuating in an emergency?
At least 20 seconds.
How long should staff wash their hands with soap and water?
They can pose choking, poisoning, or burn hazards and compromise a safe learning environment.
Why should staff never leave personal belongings (like bags, hot drinks, or sharp objects) in the classroom play area?
Date, time, location, what happened, staff actions, witnesses, follow-up steps, and signatures.
What must be included in every incident report?
Symptoms may include:
Nausea or vomiting, Diarrhea, Stomach cramps or pain, Rash or hives, Face swelling, Eczema, Itching or swelling of the lips, tongue or mouth, Itching or tightness in the throat, Difficulty breathing or wheezing, Lowered blood pressure combined with dizziness, Anaphylaxis, a sudden, life-threatening reaction of shock to the whole body, is a severe, life-threatening reaction.
What are food allergy symptoms which may begin within minutes to an hour after eating the food?
True or False: Staff should carry a headcount sheet with them during all trips outside.
True.
True or False – Hand sanitizer is an acceptable substitute for handwashing after toileting.
False. Soap and water are required.
Report immediately to the Director or custodian, remove children from the area if unsafe, and do not return until it is cleared.
What should staff do if they suspect mold, pests, or unsafe air quality in the classroom?
Name three people or agencies to notify for serious incidents or suspected abuse.
Director, DOHMH, DOE, parents, or emergency services (depending on the incident).
Child displays signs of Fever, vomiting, diarrhea, contagious rash, or severe cough.
What are signs that a child should be excluded from program for health reasons?
Name three items that must be included in the classroom emergency binder.
Evacuation plan, emergency contacts, allergy list, medication info, staff assignments.
Name three classroom areas that must be cleaned and sanitized daily.
Tables, toys, art materials, bathrooms, high-touch surfaces.
True or False: As long as children are in a safe space, it is acceptable for staff to leave the classroom with a SEIT teacher for a few minutes.
False — staff must maintain ratios at all times to ensure children’s safety and comply with licensing requirements. SEIT, SYEP or volunteers any outside support staff if not cleared by CPC as a Employee does not count as ratio
Documentation ensures continuity of care, provides a record for parents and licensing agencies, protects staff and the program legally, and supports monitoring of recurring health concerns.
Why is it important to document all medical emergencies, even if the child recovers quickly?
True or False: Staff should record a child’s health check observations each day.
True
Shelter-in-place = remain inside for safety (e.g., weather, air hazard). Evacuation = leave the building.
What’s the difference between a shelter-in-place and an evacuation?
Clean and disinfect the surface immediately and wash hands.
What is the correct procedure if a child coughs or sneezes on a surface?
Children could be injured, and staff may be held accountable for negligence if the hazard was ignored.
If you notice a hazard but assume someone else will report it, what risk are you taking?
Only administer medication if prior parent/doctor authorization and training are on file (e.g., EpiPen, inhaler). Follow the child’s health plan, call 911 if required, and document the administration.
What should staff do if a child needs medication during a medical emergency?
To prevent emergencies and ensure the child’s safety.
Why is it important to know each child’s individual health needs, like allergies or medication?
So staff and children know what to do and can respond quickly and safely.
Why is it important to practice emergency drills regularly?
At the diapering station for staff reference.
Where must diapering logs and cleaning procedures be posted?
You must escalate the concern to another supervisor or the Director, ensure children are kept away from the hazard, and confirm it is resolved. Accountability does not end with reporting — staff must follow up to maintain safety.
If you report a safety hazard and your supervisor does not act, what is your responsibility, and does your accountability end once you’ve reported it?
This is what a mandated reporter risks if they fail to report suspected child abuse — including fines, possible charges, and the child remaining in danger.
What are legal penalties, personal liability, and child safety?