Partnering for Kids Health
Educators and Health Professionals
Good things happen for kids when educators and health professionals work together. Health professionals include nurses, physicians, nutritionists, dentists, veterinarians, public health practitioners and researchers, and more!
1. Teaching Health Stuff
Imagine lessons about health that aren't boring. When educators and health colleagues team up, they can teach kids about food and about feeling good in their minds and getting along with others. For examples, if there is a local nursing or public health schools in your area, see if students can do a teaching project in your class about hand hygiene or helmet safety. That’s one lesson plan off the to-do list.
2. Fixing Problems Early
It's important to catch problems early, like a learning disability or depression. When educators and health professionals work together, they can make plans to help kids early on. This includes physical, mental, social, emotional, and behavioral health. That’s a lot to worry about, but just keep it simple and make sure kids know you’re there to support them if they are having a tough time dealing with life’s hurdles.
3. Happy and Healthy Schools - Good for Bodies and Minds
Schools aren't just for learning. They're also places where kids grow up. When educators and health professionals team up, they can make sure schools are places where kids can be healthy. This might mean talking about mental health or making sure everyone has nutritious food and chances to move around and exercise their little bodies.
4. Families Learning Too - Everyone Getting Healthier
This teamwork doesn't stop at school. Educators and health professionals can also help families be healthy. This teamwork makes whole communities healthier.
5. Making Smart Choices with Data
By sharing information, educators and health professionals can make better choices for kids. Looking at info about health and how well kids are doing in school can show patterns. With this info, they can make plans to help kids with both health and learning.
6. Strong Kids, Strong Communities
When educators and health pros work together, they help build strong communities. Kids who learn about health grow up to be smart citizens who care about their communities. This teamwork sets the stage for a future where everyone can do well in school and live healthy lives.
In a nutshell, when educators and health pros team up, it's not just about school stuff; it's about making sure every kid is healthy and ready for a bright future. It's about making schools places where kids can grow, learn, and be their best selves, both in class and out.
References:
Fleming, R., Willgerodt, M.A., (September 30, 2017) "Interprofessional Collaborative Practice and School Nursing: A Model for Improved Health Outcomes" OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing Vol. 22, No. 3, Manuscript 2.
