Health and Self Care
Should I keep my child off school?
A Guide to Childhood Illnesses and Well-being
Healthy lunches
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Whether squeezing it in before the school run in the morning or before bed on busy midweek evenings, preparing your child's lunchbox can seem like just another thing on the list. School meals are a great choice, but if you do make a packed lunch for your child then we've got you covered with our range of quick, easy, healthier lunchbox ideas and tips.
Oral Health
All staff in our school have completed the recommended Children's Oral Health - e-Learning for Health' professional development training.
Why oral health is included in the EYFS framework
This has been included because good oral health habits need to be formed from the earliest age. Tooth decay is largely preventable, but it’s still a serious problem among young children.
Nearly a quarter of 5 year olds in England have tooth decay, with 3 or 4 teeth affected on average. Tooth extraction is one of the most common procedures for children under 6 in hospital. Extraction is also the most common reason for hospital admission for children aged 6 to 10. Children from more deprived backgrounds are more likely to have tooth decay.
Children who have toothache, or need treatment, may have pain or infections. This can have a wider effect and lead to problems eating, sleeping, socialising and learning.
Promoting Oral Health
Be playful with children about oral health. Suggest they brush the teeth of dolls or soft toys. Read stories about teeth and smiles. Talk about healthy food and drinks that help to grow strong teeth, and those that do not. Get them to look at their own and sibling/parents' teeth, using mirrors.
You can also support children’s awareness of oral health by:
- visiting dentists regularly
- reading stories about visiting the dentist
- watching YouTube videos such as 'Topsy and Tim go to the Dentist'
- brushing teeth together
- establishing toothbrushing routines
Useful Resources
Children’s Oral Health: healthcare e-learning, aimed at parents, early years healthcare workers, teachers, nurses, GPs and the public.
PACEY’s oral health advice: includes factsheet for parents.
Delivering oral health from Public Health England, includes a quick guide to healthy mouths in children.