Inclusion Matters Injury Prevention
Apr 17, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Sarah Hawley, RN, BSN, PHN, the owner of Minnesota Child Care Health Consultants and an experienced public health nurse, shares strategies for injury prevention in early childhood settings. She emphasizes the importance of creating safe environments and outlines key techniques to protect young children from common hazards, like burns and choking. The conversation also explores ways to prepare play areas for safety, offers staff training tips, and discusses the dynamics of multi-age childcare to ensure a secure space for all.
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Injuries Are Predictable and Preventable
- Most injuries to young children are predictable and preventable through proper planning.
- Common injuries include burns, poisoning, choking, and suffocation especially in unfamiliar settings.
Four Pillars of Injury Prevention
- Prevent injuries with planning: practice active supervision, arrange space safely, ensure age-appropriate activities, and establish clear injury prevention policies.
- These four components form the foundation of effective child safety in early childhood settings.
Master Active Supervision
- Use strategic staff positioning to eliminate blind spots and enable quick intervention.
- Count children frequently, especially during transitions, and tailor supervision to each child's abilities.