Each Child. Every Community.

Many young children spend a large part of their day in settings outside of their homes. Child Care Health Consultants help keep children safe and healthy in child care settings. They work closely with child care providers to establish or improve health policies and procedures designed to prevent injuries and protect children from infectious diseases. They are a resource to staff members as well as families and children.

Currently, Smart Start partnerships fund 80 percent of the Child Care Health Consultant positions in North Carolina.

According to the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center, Child Care Health Consultants,

• Assess health and safety needs and practices in the child care setting;
• Help caregivers develop strategies for caring for children with special health needs;
• Establish policies and procedures for health/safety emergencies;
• Provide health education and wellness programs, as well as health screenings;
• Offer solutions for managing injuries or infectious diseases within the child care setting;
• Connect caregivers and families with community health care resources and experts;
• Provide up-to-date information on the latest guidelines, policies, and information regarding child health and safety;
• Offer hands-on support through telephone advice or regular on-site visits; and
• Conduct child care staff training.