Critically discuss the contribution that schools can make to children’s health and wellbeing.

As a society we want the best for our children to enable them to grow and develop into healthy human beings. Looking at their wellbeing gives an overview of the person as a whole and their identity in society, and how we can ensure that they are given the best start in life and assist to maximise each child’s potential.

This aspect is supported by the United Nation Convention on the rights of the child’s (1989) citied in Collins & Foley 2008. This convention in many articles focus on the child ensuring that they have a say in their health and wellbeing giving them the best start to life. Kamerman and Kahn (2003) highlights the importance of child welfare and talks about ‘human capital’. As educators we have a large role in providing for all children giving them the best opportunities in life.

There are many factors that can influence the health and wellbeing of children. Research has shown that early childhood experience has a significant impact on childhood development and how they continue into adulthood. As Vygotsky (1978) identified, children from a very young age can learn and develop new capacities through the collaboration and interaction with adults. (Citied in connecting with children; developing working relationships). Learning Guide 5 Activity 5.2 and watching the DVD on children’s participation brings to light how we as adults should listen more to children and permit children to have more of a say. On the video it identifies when children are given the opportunity to participate, it enhances their confidence and self-esteem to be part of society.

When looking at children’s health and