74 Health, Safety, & Nutrition (HSN) Rationale The health, safety, and nutrition of each child in their care are the greatest responsibility of early childhood professionals. Safety encompasses physical, social, and emotional health. Professionals must know and follow all requirements dictated by laws and regulations regarding health, safety, and nutrition. Core Knowledge Components Based on current theories and ongoing research, early childhood professionalsin various care and educational settings must understand: Policies, Practices, & Procedures – They demonstrate knowledge of general policies and procedures regarding communicable diseases, oral hygiene, administration of medication, environmental hazards, sanitation, prevention of injuries, immediate and follow-up response to injuries, and emergencypreparedness. Abuse and Neglect – They are familiar with signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect and know the course of action to take as mandatedreporters. Nutrition and Dietary Practices – They understand the importance of good nutrition. They understand good selection and preparation, manage mealtime behaviors, and respond to food preferences. Communication with Families – They respectfully communicate with families regarding policies, special needs, and nutrition and foods. Health Education – They understand and implement basic health practices. They communicate information regarding nutrition, safety, healthy self-care, physical activity, and health and safety resources. Core Knowledge Competencies The competencies and indicators on the following pages specify how the specific knowledge, behaviors and practices are demonstrated by early childhood professionals across five levels of proficiency that follow a progression of knowledge, skills and abilities. The levels build on one another, with the belief that a person working on competencies at Level III has already achieved most or all of the competencies at Level I and II.