Classroom health teaching - help!

[momof twins]

Hello everyone,

I am a Middle School nurse and have been in this position for 4 months. I want to do some classroom health teaching, but unsure of what topics to address. The principle wants me to do Hygiene for the six graders, I also thought of Lice (since this has been an issue recently) and also Nursing. At the last staff meeting, I announced that I am available to come to their classroom and to talk about any health topics - but no one has taken me up on the offer. What other health topics could I teach and how do I get the teachers engaged? Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[Purple_Scrubs, BSN, RN]

I have done class presentations on germs, handwashing, hygiene, and even one for a math class on thermometers and temperature. I think tying it into one of their main subjects like math or science helps teachers see the value of it. I usually send a email out to all the teachers saying that I am available for classroom presentations and giving sample topics. I always say that I am willing to do any other health related topic if given preparation time.

Just keep offerring. Maybe talk to the principal about doing some lessons on days the teacher is out (take a little pressure off the sub). Eventually they will see that you have a lot to offer and will utilize you more!

[bergren]

Here is a link to the National Health Education Standards: http://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/sher/standards/index.htm

CDC School Health Education Resources: http://apps.nccd.cdc.gov/sher/

Health Education modules: http://www.cdc.gov/HealthyYouth/HECAT/index.htm

You need to check the health education curriculum and who else is doing health teaching? I'd check and see what has already been covered.

Does your school have zoomerang or survey monkey? You could run a anonymous suggestion "box" for topics.