Knowledge, Self-confidence and Practice of Teachers Concerning Health and Safety of Children in Child-Daycare Centers

Oh, Kasil; Sim, Mi Kyung; Choi, Eun Kyung

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to provide basic data for the development of health and safety programs by examining child-care teacher's knowledge, self-confidence and practice concerning the health and safety of children under their care. METHOD: The participants were 72 teachers from 15 child care centers in Seoul City and Chung-Nam Province. Data were collected using self-report questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA and Pearson correlation coefficients with SPSS 12.0 Win program.
RESULTS
The mean score for self-confidence was lower than knowledge and practice. Self-confidence score about emergency care for falls, fractures and resuscitation were lowest. For safety knowledge, scores about facility and environment were lowest. For health knowledge, scores about disease and symptoms were lowest. For practice, scores about seat belts and safe furniture arrangement were lowest. Significant correlations were found between practice and self-confidence. There were significant differences in the degree of knowledge according to education, and in practice according to age.
CONCLUSIONS
Health and safety education programs for child care teachers are necessary for the promotion of knowledge, self-confidence and practice in health and safety. The results suggest that health and safety education program should be provided systematically and continuously for child care teachers.