Health and Safety
Children need to be active, so Have a Ball!
Physical activity is essential to healthy child development, and the early years are the best time to give kids an active start. But where do you begin? The Have a Ball Together website will give you the tools you need to be able to promote and encourage physical activity for children 0-6.Webinar: Updated recommendations for early introduction of allergenic foods
Did you know that the Canadian Paediatric Society has updated recommendations on the early introduction of allergenic foods for high-risk infants? Register now to learn about the new recommendations.New mental health videos for newcomers
It is important for families talk about mental health and for children to be supported if they have challenges, anxieties, or stresses in life. Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has launched two new videos about the mental health challenges of settling into a new country that you can share in your community.Keeping Reusable Water Bottles Clean
We often ask parents to bring in reusable water bottles, but did you know that without proper cleaning, children's water bottles can be filled with germs? Reusable water bottles must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized on a regular basis to avoid contamination.How to Facilitate Risky Play
Risky play is when children engage in risk-taking activities. This benefits the child because it helps them build essential skills for their development; for example, their confidence, self-regulation, and independence. But how can we facilitate risky play safely in our programs?Healthy Habits for Life Child Care Resource Kit
As a child care provider, you have the wonderful opportunity to help lay a healthy foundation. In addition to their families, you are their model for food and fitness. The Healthy Habits for Life Child Care Resource Kit will give you the tools you need to teach children about eating right and being physically active so that they can establish healthy habits for life. In it, you'll find: easy-to-use, fun lessons and activities that will fit in with your existing routines; ways to establish a connection with children’s families and support healthy habits at home.Sick with the flu: Helpful visuals for parents
When children display symptoms of the flu, parents are often unsure when they should call the doctor or when to take their child to the hospital. Children with the flu can typically be treated at home with rest and fluids. A trip to the emergency room (ER) should not be necessary for most cases of the flu. However, there are certain warning signs parents can watch for to know when to seek medical attention.New Canada Food Guide
The iconic Canada Food Guide has provided Canadians with a snapshot of healthy eating recommendations for over 75 years, and Health Canada has just released the first updated edition in over a decade! The new Canada Food Guide suggests a focus on drinking water, plant-based diets, and home-cooking.