Welcome to School
Learn about the healthy school program and resources available to help create a healthy school environment.
Public Health is here to support your family, with helping your child start school happy, healthy & ready to learn! Explore key topics to support your child’s transition to school.
Dental screening
Cavities can begin soon after a baby’s first tooth appears. Dental screenings are a crucial part of maintaining oral health for school children. Dental screenings are conducted by Public Health in all elementary schools for both Junior and Senior Kindergarten children.
Vision screening
Wondering if your child can see clearly? Vision screening is an important component of child health and development. The Ontario Public Health Standards mandate that all children in Senior Kindergarten receive a series of three simple vision screening tests to identify any potential vision problems.
Vaccines & Children
Routine childhood vaccinations are a safe and effective way to prevent infections and outbreaks of vaccine preventable diseases and help keep schools and communities healthy. Parents are responsible for reporting their child’s vaccines to Public Health.
Preventing spread of illness
Respiratory illnesses such as colds, flu, RSV, and COVID-19 can spread easily in school settings. Encouraging habits like staying home when sick, regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and spending time in well-ventilated spaces can help reduce the spread of illness.
Head lice prevention
Head lice are common among school-aged children and are not related to cleanliness. Head lice spread through direct head-to-head contact, so regular checks, especially during school outbreaks, can help identify and manage them early.
Food and Eating at School
Nutritious food helps your child grow, learn, and stay energized throughout the day. Building balanced meals and snacks can support focus, mood, and overall well-being at school.
Physical Activity
Daily physical activity helps your child grow strong and healthy. Moving regularly supports their body and brain development, helping them learn, feel good, develop skills, and have fun.
Active and Sustainable School Travel
Planning how your child will get to and from school is an important part of starting Kindergarten. Walking or wheeling to school can support your child’s health while building independence and daily routines.
Sleep Routines
A healthy balance of sleep, rest, and activity supports your child’s growth and development. Consistent sleep routines help children feel well-rested, focused, and ready to learn each day.
Screen time
Parents and caregivers play an important role in shaping healthy screen habits. Setting limits and encouraging a balance of activities can support your child’s development and well-being.
Healthy Growth and Development
All children develop at their own pace. Developmental milestones provide a helpful guide to the skills and changes you may see as your child grows, and tracking development can help identify concerns early.
Emotional Well-being
Starting Kindergarten is a big milestone. Building strong social and emotional skills like managing feelings and connecting with others helps children feel confident and ready to learn. Theraplay and parenting supports can help strengthen these skills through positive, play-based approaches.
Self-care Skills
Practicing everyday skills like dressing, toileting, and feeding themselves can help your child feel more confident and independent at school. Establishing routines at home, like bedtime, morning schedules, and travel to school can make the transition smoother.
Transition to School
Starting school is a big transition for both children and families. Visiting the school, attending events, talking about what to expect, and encouraging questions can help your child feel more comfortable and prepared.