Kindergarten
Keep your children happy, safe and healthy with public health guidance, resources, programs, and services to support your child and family.
Services
Looking for public health information?
A Public Health Nurse from your local health unit is assigned to each school. If you have questions regarding health and safety resources, immunizations and communicable disease control, you can speak with a Public Health Nurse by calling your local public health unit.
Find your local public health unit
Routine childhood immunization
We recommend Kindergarten children be immunized before starting school. Children 4 years of age need a booster of Diphtheria, Pertussis (Whooping cough), Tetanus, Polio and a booster of Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella (Chicken Pox).
Learn more about kindergarten immunizationHow to prevent the spread of illness
Parents and guardians play an important role in teaching children to wash their hands. Handwashing can become a lifelong healthy habit if you start teaching it at an early age. Hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the best way to stop the spread of germs. Hand washing is important before and after eating, using the toilet, and blowing your nose.
What to do when your child is sick
Students who are exhibiting symptoms of illness, including respiratory and gastrointestinal illness, should stay home until they are well enough to participate in regular activities. Those who are vomiting or have diarrhea should be symptom-free for at least 48 hours before returning to school. For up-to-date information on childhood infections, visit the BCCDC's Quick Guide to Common Childhood Diseases.
Dental, hearing and vision health
Dental: Children with healthy teeth have better mental and social well-being and learn better at school. Tooth decay can be prevented with good daily dental care, nutrition and regular visits to the dentist or dental hygienist every six months. To learn more about dental health and for information about free & low-cost dental services, visit the Dental Public Health Program page.
Hearing: The Hearing Screening Team visits Kindergarten students in every elementary school to screen for hearing loss and for medical conditions of the outer and middle ear. Learn more about audiology Services.
Vision: Good vision is important for children’s learning and development. All children should see an optometrist before kindergarten, to start school ready to learn. Learn more about vision services for children
Management of medical conditions in school
Please let your school know if your child requires additional support at school for the management of anaphylaxis (severe allergy), diabetes, seizures, asthma and/or any other complex medical needs.
Resources
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Healthy Kids Program
The Healthy Kids Program provides coverage for basic dental treatment, optical care and hearing assistance to children in low-income families.
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Canadian Dental Care Plan
The Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) can help income-eligible families get the dental care they need. Applications are now open for children under 18 and adults who have a valid disability tax credit.
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Parenting preschoolers (3-5 years)
HealthLinkBC - Learn ways that you can nurture your child’s development and help build your relationship with them.
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Screen time and the young child
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Sleep and your preschooler
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The morning struggle
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