Noting that the health component of child care should be planned to respond to the developmental patterns of young children, this manual was developed as a reference and resource guide for program directors and teachers of young children and can be used as a textbook for adult learners. The manual, based on national standards and reviewed by health and early childhood professionals, describes currently accepted standards for health policies and practices in early childhood programs. Following an introductory chapter, the chapter topics are: (1) preventing infection; (2) preventing injuries; (3) emergencies and injuries; (4) promoting health with good nutrition; (5) promoting health through oral health, mental health, and health education; (5) clinical health services for children; (6) staff and consultants for safe and healthy child care; (7) facility design and support services for safe and healthy child care; (9) managing illness; and (10) special issues, focusing on inclusion of children with special needs and child abuse and neglect. Each chapter begins with a delineation of major concepts related to the chapter topic, contains self-assessment instruments as appropriate, and concludes with suggested activities. The guide's four appendices provide a list of national resources for health and safety information; a list of fact sheets available from ECELS; a list of children's picture books about health, nutrition, and safety; and a health and safety checklist. (KB)