More than 8.6 million children in the United States receive primary care from a Community Health Center. National Health Center Week is the perfect time to engage your youngest patients as they prepare to return to school. From well-child checks to book drives, health centers can help children be healthy, strong, and empowered now and in the future.
Consider these resources and ideas in recognition of Children’s Health Day:
- Host an immunization event with school supply giveaways sponsored by a local business. Activities such as free haircuts, face painting, and mascot appearances are also big draws.
- Provide health center information and resources at local back-to-school orientation sessions.
- Promote early childhood literacy by becoming a Reach Out and Read partner.
Sesame Street in Communities + NACHC
The National Association of Community Health Centers is proud to partners with Sesame Street in Communities to provide integrated tools and resources that address topics impacting child development and social support needs. Sesame Street in Communities is a bilingual, multimedia initiative that features hundreds of FREE activities ranging from the alphabet, to health and wellness, and tougher topics like coping with traumatic experiences. These resources help build resilience in children and the adults who care for them. Explore the site to find printable materials, videos, games, professional development tools, and more to feature in your National Health Center Week activities and beyond.
We’ve provided a few health-focused resources and activities below to get you started!
My Healthy Week Chart
Use this chart to promote good hygiene habits that keep little ones healthy and strong. Encourage caregivers to hang it somewhere kids can easily see, such as the refrigerator. At the end of a healthy week, share a healthy snack! Providers can print and keep copies in waiting rooms or offices to share with families.
Coloring Pages
Before visiting the doctor, caregivers can invite kids to color this page and discuss what to expect during the visit. Providers can start this conversation, too. Remember, families and caregivers are in this healthy journey together!
Tips for Well Visits
Empower parents by discussing the importance of well-child visits. This article includes simple strategies for making well visits go smoothly, like talking about what doctors and nurses do, and helping children know what to expect.
Handwashing Storybook
Handwashing is one of the most important habits of a healthy lifestyle. Share this storybook with families and encourage them to read it together with children. Ask kids about the different places they might wash their hands, such as at home, daycare, in a public restroom, or even at your health center!
