Health and Safety Letter Book
Infants build early awareness of body and routine through repetition and sensory input. 'Health and Safety Letter Book' lays groundwork for future health habits.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Respond to caregiver voice
- Visually track body images
- Explore textures
- Begin associating routines with safety and hygiene
Instructions
Materials
- Heavy-duty cardstock pages with rounded corners
- Laminated photos of healthy foods, soap, and a toothbrush
- Clear contact paper or wide packing tape
- Fabric swatches with varying textures like felt or silk
- Sturdy metal binder rings
- Non-toxic glue sticks
Learning Objectives
- Track moving objects or images with eyes for several seconds.
- Respond to the teacher's voice through cooing or changes in facial expression.
- Reach toward or grasp at sensory materials presented on the page.
- Demonstrate familiarity with daily health routines through visual exposure.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare four pages by gluing a large, clear image of a health-related item, such as a toothbrush or apple, onto cardstock.
2. Add a small piece of textured fabric next to each image to provide tactile stimulation.
3. Seal each page with clear contact paper to ensure the book is durable and easy to wipe clean.
4. Punch holes in the corners of the cardstock and secure the pages together with metal binder rings.
5. Sit on the floor with the infant in your lap or in a supported seated position.
6. Hold the book approximately 8 to 12 inches from the infant's face to accommodate their visual range.
7. Point to each image and name the object clearly, such as saying, "This is soap for washing hands."
8. Allow the infant to touch the textured fabric or pat the images while you describe the sensation.
9. Keep the session brief, as infants have short attention spans and will signal when they are finished by looking away.
Educator Tip
Infants learn through repetitive sensory input. If an infant shows interest in a specific page, linger there longer to allow for extended exploration. Avoid rushing through the book, as the goal is to build a positive association with the vocabulary rather than completing the entire set of pages in one sitting.
Assessment
- Observe if the infant turns their head toward the book when you begin speaking.
- Record whether the infant reaches out to touch the textures or images.
- Note if the infant exhibits focused attention by quieting down or widening their eyes while viewing the pages.
Educator tip
Keep stimulation low; follow infant cues; sanitize props; avoid small parts.
Assessment
Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Observe gaze, sensory response, and regulation.