Food Safety

Child Care Centers serve children with a variety of health needs that may require medication, individualized health care plans, or accommodations throughout the day. Clear procedures, accurate documentation, and collaboration with families help ensure children receive the support they need while participating safely in classroom routines.

Providing inclusive care requires thoughtful planning, staff training, and ongoing communication. By preparing in advance and maintaining consistent procedures, teaching teams can confidently support children’s individual health needs while promoting full participation in daily activities.

Medication Administration

Medication should only be administered according to written authorization and established program procedures.

Medication Authorization

Area	Program Expectations	Leadership Tip
Authorization	Obtain written parent authorization before administering medication.	Review authorizations regularly for accuracy and expiration.
Prescription Medication	Administer according to pharmacy instructions.	Maintain current medication records in each classroom.
Nonprescription Medication	Follow licensing requirements and manufacturer instructions.	Ensure staff understand program medication policies.
Documentation	Record medication, dosage, time, and staff initials immediately after administration.	Periodically review medication logs for completeness.

Medication Storage Requirements

Medication Type	Storage Requirements	Leadership Tip
Prescription Medication	Store in original labeled containers inaccessible to children.	Designate secure medication storage areas throughout the center.
Refrigerated Medication	Store separately from food in clearly identified containers.	Monitor refrigerator temperatures routinely.
Emergency Medication	Maintain immediate staff access while preventing child access.	Review emergency medication locations during staff meetings.
Expired Medication	Return to families or dispose of properly.	Conduct monthly medication inventory reviews.

Allergies & Special Health Needs

Programs should establish procedures that support children with allergies, asthma, diabetes, seizure disorders, and other ongoing health conditions.

Teaching teams should:

• Review Individual Health Care Plans (IHCPs).
• Understand emergency procedures.
• Maintain emergency medications.
• Communicate routinely with families.
• Promote children’s full participation whenever safely possible.

Food Allergy Prevention

Risk Area	Prevention Strategies	Leadership Tip
Food Preparation	Prevent cross-contact and verify ingredient labels.	Train food service and classroom staff together.
Meals & Snacks	Follow children’s documented dietary needs.	Update classroom allergy lists immediately when changes occur.
Classroom Activities	Review ingredients used in cooking, sensory, and art experiences.	Encourage staff to consider allergy risks during lesson planning.
Communication	Share allergy information with all appropriate staff while maintaining confidentiality.	Include allergy reviews during substitute orientation.

Documentation Requirements

Document	Purpose	Leadership Tip
Medication Authorization	Parent authorization for medication administration.	Review annually or whenever medications change.
Individual Health Care Plan	Individualized medical procedures and accommodations.	Ensure all classroom staff understand each child’s plan.
Allergy Action Plan	Emergency response procedures.	Conduct annual emergency response practice.
Medication Log	Documentation of medication administration.	Review logs routinely for accuracy and completeness.

Business Connection

Supporting children with individual health needs reflects your program’s commitment to inclusion, safety, and high-quality care. Clear procedures, ongoing staff training, and strong family partnerships create environments where every child can participate successfully while giving families confidence that their child’s health needs will be met consistently.