The Healthy Early Years (HEY) programme
The Healthy Early Years (HEY) programme is run jointly by Public Health and Services for Young Children and supports the delivery of a whole-setting approach to health. It is designed for Early Years settings (Maintained and PVI nurseries and pre-schools) and childminders. It provides information, tips, and ideas for staff to promote health messages in all learning opportunities with children, and communications with parents/carers.
There are twelve health topics to support Hampshire young children and families:
- Immunisations and Minor Illness
- Healthy Weight and Healthy Eating
- Physical Activity and Active Play
- Sun Safety and Hot Weather
- Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing
- Sleep and Behaviour
- Oral Health
- Attachment
- Safety in the Home and Accident Prevention
- School Readiness
- Safe Use of Technology and
- Imaginative Play
Each health topic is designed to be delivered over a half term on a two-year cycle.
Each topic includes:
- Key information, national and local guidance
- Advice on local referral pathways and services
- Links to teaching resources and support
- Links to helpful information and resources for parents/carers
- How health links to the EYFS framework and should be included in policies
Settings can achieve a Healthy Early Years badge for each topic, demonstrating good practice to parents and OFSTED. Badges are valid for three years and may be used on your promotional material. If all twelve valid badges are achieved, settings are then eligible to apply for a Healthy Early Years Award (HEYA).
To find out more about the award and to view the HEY resources visit the SfYC Moodle.