Injuries are not pleasant but early childhood educators can help children understand their causes and how to prevent them.
Children may be curious about injuries if they, another child, or an educator have hurt themselves. They may be interested in first aid, like the treatment of cuts or broken bones. First aid is often a feature of children's dramatic play, in which children explore their emotions and thoughts about being hurt.
NQS and EYLF
The National Quality Standard requires early childhood education services to promote and implement effective practices in illness and injury management and hygiene (2.1.2).
The Early Years Learning Framework asks children to take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical wellbeing (3.2).
Learning experiences
Make a first-aid kit
Educators help children make a pretend first aid kit using a small box or container. Include various items such as bandaids, gauze, and a toy stethoscope. Children can use this kit to practice treating pretend injuries on dolls or stuffed animals.
Explore medical equipment
Children explore different types of bandaids, slings and gauze by feeling the textures and comparing sizes. They will enjoy investigating crutches or a wheelchair too, if you have access to them. Educators can also demonstrate and explain how these items are used in the treatment of injuries.
Make a cast
Children conduct an experiment to see what materials (e.g. paper, duct tape, and playdough) make the best cast for a broken arm. They compare their strength and durability.
Resources
Websites
- Curious Kids: Why do we get bruises?
- Curious Kids: how do wounds heal?