Chapter 6 Scenario: Brock’s Runny Nose

Objective and scenario

To develop and evaluate an action plan to identify and manage childhood illness.

Brock is a delightful 4-year old who has Down syndrome.  During the first weeks of the preschool session, he seemed to listen carefully, try hard, and get along well with his classmates. So far, you are pleased with his progress.
    One of your assistant teachers expressed concern about Brock’s continuously runny nose and productive cough during a recent team meeting. She wonders if this is normal or a sign of illness, so you share your knowledge about children who have Down syndrome with the group. However, today you both have observed that Brock is noticeably more listless than usual, his cough is more frequent, and he has begun rubbing his right ear.

Focus assignment

1. Complete the first step of your action plan by briefly explaining why you would, or would not, be concerned about the symptoms that Brock is exhibiting. List the symptoms that are characteristic of an upper respiratory infection and outline the steps you would take to prevent its spread in the classroom. 
2. Be sure to read the REFLECTION section below to guide your thinking. Write your reflection after you have completed the first step of your plan.
Self-Evaluation

1. For each item in your plan:
a. Explain how this item addresses the issues in the scenario.

2. Describe and justify how your plan would improve teaching and learning in the scenario.