Health Consultation in Early Care and Education

HEALTHIER, SAFER SETTINGS FOR OUR CHILDREN

More than 60% of children younger than five spend significant time in early care and education (ECE) settings. A safe physical environment that promotes good health and keeps children free from injury and illness is essential for optimal learning and development in the early years. Such investments in safety, prevention and early intervention pay off over a lifetime.

CHDI is working to improve health and safety in early care education using nurse health consultants (also known as child care health consultants).  In Connecticut, health consultants:

• Ensure children’s health and safety in child care settings
• Monitor children’s development through screening and connect children to follow up services when needed. 
• Help pediatric primary care and child care providers collaborate to address children's health and developmental needs

Licensed early care and education settings are required by the State of Connecticut to have regular visits by a health consultant. CHDI recognizes the important role nurse health consultants play in keeping children healthy in early care and education settings and is working to strengthen and expand support for their contributions to child health.