Home > Childcare Operations > Daily Health Check

Daily Health Check

Policy Statement

Daily Health Checks are conducted to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all children and staff. These checks help identify signs of illness or injury early, reduce the spread of infectious diseases, and ensure prompt communication with families.

Daily Health Checks are required for every child upon arrival and are conducted by trained staff in accordance with program health and safety procedures.

Purpose

The purpose of the Daily Health Check is to:

  • Identify signs of illness, injury, or discomfort

  • Ensure children are healthy enough to participate in group care

  • Maintain a safe and healthy learning environment

  • Support clear communication between families and staff

Procedure: Daily Health Check

Step 1: Positioning & Engagement

  • Greet the child and parent warmly upon arrival.

  • Position yourself at the child’s eye level to observe and interact with the child while communicating with the parent.

  • Use a calm, welcoming tone to help the child feel comfortable.

Step 2: General Observation

Observe the child for overall appearance and behavior, noting whether it is typical or atypical for the child and the time of day.

Check for:

  • Lethargy, irritability, or unusual behavior

  • Signs of distress or discomfort

  • Changes from the child’s usual demeanor

Step 3: Physical Health Screening

Visually and physically assess the following:

Appearance

  • Overall cleanliness and alertness

Skin

  • Pale or flushed appearance

  • Rashes, bruises, or marks

  • Gently touch the child’s skin in an affectionate, appropriate manner to check warmth or abnormal texture

Eyes, Nose, and Mouth

  • Redness, swelling, dryness, or discharge

  • Excessive rubbing of eyes, nose, or mouth

  • Runny nose or drooling beyond developmental norms

Hair

  • During known lice outbreaks, discreetly check for nits or lice

Breathing

  • Normal or labored breathing

  • Presence of coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath

Step 4: Temperature Check (If Required)

  • Use a non-contact thermometer as required by program policy or if symptoms are observed.

  • Follow program guidelines for acceptable temperature ranges.

  • Document and report any elevated temperature according to illness policy.

Step 5: Parent Communication

Ask the parent or guardian the following health-related questions:

  • How did the child feel or act at home?

  • Did the child sleep normally?

  • Is the child eating and drinking normally?

  • When was the last diaper change or bathroom use?

  • Have there been any unusual events or concerns?

  • Any signs of illness, injury, or medication administered since the last attendance?

  • Are bowel movements and urine output normal?

Step 6: Hygiene Check

  • Ensure the child washes hands upon arrival.

  • Observe and reinforce proper handwashing techniques as needed.

Step 7: Documentation

  • Record any health concerns, observations, or parent reports according to program procedures.

  • Update medical or health records as needed, including:

    • Allergies

    • Medical conditions

    • Emergency contact information

  • Ensure required medication and consent forms are current.

Step 8: Response to Illness

If signs of illness or injury are identified:

  • Follow the program’s illness exclusion policy.

  • Notify the Director or designated administrator immediately.

  • If symptoms develop during the day:

    • Isolate the child according to policy

    • Supervise the child at all times

    • Notify parents promptly for pickup

    • Seek medical guidance if required

Cleaning & Infection Control

  • Maintain a clean environment by regularly disinfecting:

    • Toys

    • Surfaces

    • High-touch areas

  • Reinforce hygiene practices such as covering coughs and sneezes.

Staff Training

  • All staff must be trained on Daily Health Check procedures.

  • Ongoing training is provided to ensure compliance with updated health regulations and program policies.

Acknowledgement

I have read, understood, and had the opportunity to ask questions regarding the Daily Health Check procedures. I agree to follow this policy as outlined.

Employee Name: __________________________
Signature: __________________________
Date: __________________________