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October 2018 – Elementary School E-Bits

For Administrators and Educators

Free online anaphylaxis course! How about taking a quick anaphylaxis refresher course that can teach you the basics of anaphylaxis, ways to reduce risks in your program, and the recommended emergency treatment in childcare, school and community settings – all in just 30 minutes! Visit Allergyaware.ca for more details.

Cannabis legalization. On October 17 it will become legal for those 19 years and older to buy, use, possess and grow non-medical (recreational) cannabis in Canada. As we prepare for legalization, educators may be looking for additional resources and strategies on how to educate their students about cannabis. Visit the Substance Use and Addictions Educators Page at www.healthunit.org to learn more about what works and to access resources for your classroom including Level Up and lesson plans by OPHEA. Educators can also refer to Cannabis Information for Educators for more information on legalization and the implications to Ontario schools.

For Families

Is your child in JK? Have you submitted your child’s immunization record to the Health Unit? According to the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA), your child’s immunizations are required to be up-to-date to attend school. Being fully immunized protects children against many diseases that are easily spread in schools. For more information on how to submit these records visit the Health Unit online at www.healthunit.org or call 1-800-660-5853.

Is your child 7? Have they received their 4–6 year old immunizations? The 4–6 year booster requires 2 needles and protects children against the following 8 diseases: tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough, polio, measles, mumps, rubella and chicken pox. If your child has received these boosters, it’s important to notify the Health Unit. For more information on how to submit these records visit the Health Unit online at www.healthunit.org or call 1-800-660-5853.

Talking to your child about cannabis and other substance. On October 17 it will become legal for those 19 years and older to buy, use, possess and grow non-medical cannabis in Canada. As we prepare for legalization, parents and caregivers may be looking for tips on how to talk to their children about cannabis and other substances. Parents and caregivers can try out these key strategies:

  • Be the kind of adult you want your child to become;
  • Spend time with your child and support the activities they enjoy;
  • Communicate often and openly;
  • Set clear and realistic expectations; know who your child is with, what they’re doing and where they are;
  • Know the law and the facts on cannabis and other substances.

For more information, check out the following resources: Cannabis: What Parents/Guardians and Caregivers Need to Know, Cannabis Talk Kit, and Triple P.