Home Medicine Chest
Guidance for Parents

Childcare providers should not be giving medicine unless it is specifically prescribed for a child in their care! However, staff are often primary sources of information for parents, and should be aware of commonly used medications that may or may not be safe for children. This program is designed to provide staff with this information, as well as to reach parents or "relative-care" providers. The purpose is to provide guidance for purchasing health care supplies that are commonly used with children, and to discourage the use of unnecessary and often dangerous medications or "home remedies." In all cases, other than obviously minor injuries such as scratched knees, parents should consult their child’s physician or other health care provider. Content includes OTC treatments for colds, coughs, and runny noses; fever; pain relievers; tummy troubles; eyes and ears; poisoning; cuts, scrapes and wounds; stings and bites, poison ivy, and allergic reactions; and burns. Products such as vitamins and first aid supplies are also covered. Discussion and activities include giving medication correctly; side effects and adverse reactions; home remedies; and proper storage, expiration, and disposal.

Click to download training evaluation forms in English.

• State the importance of contacting their child’s doctor before giving any medication.
• List over-the-counter medications or supplies which can be useful in treating minor injuries or illness.
• Recognize that all medications are strong substances and are potentially dangerous.
• Recognize the dangers of some "home remedies."

www.childhealthonline.org
Healthy Childcare Consultants, Inc.
2312 Chandawood Drive, Pelham, AL  35124-1229
Telephone 205-663-7402       FAX 205-621-2149

Contact Dr. Charlotte Hendricks

* The boxed thumbnail images are examples from the training module.