Preschool teachers in kindergartens inevitably encounter human parasites, which are a common problem in preschool environments. Parasites not only cause discomfort but may also lead to severe health issues. It is crucial for preschool teachers to quickly detect their presence among children and know how to respond appropriately. Raising awareness and providing education regarding parasites is important for teachers and parents (who play a key role in identifying and removing parasites) as well as for children.
The theoretical part of this thesis uses literature review to identify and present the most prevalent human parasites found in Slovenian kindergartens. It outlines appropriate response protocols and recommended preventive measures against them. In the empirical part, we investigated the frequency, prevalence, seasonality, and transmissibility of common human parasites in Slovenian kindergartens. We also assessed teachers' response strategies, children's ability to recognize common parasites, and their hand hygiene practices—a factor directly linked to parasite transmission among preschoolers… The empirical data was obtained through a survey of preschool teachers working in various kindergartens across Slovenia, as well as through interviews and direct behavioral observations of preschool children aged 5–6 years.
Comprehensive analysis revealed that human parasites represent a serious challenge in Slovenian kindergartens, that requires the collaborative intervention from all stakeholders—kindergarten teachers, parents, and children. Only through coordinated efforts and strict adherence to preventive measures we reduce infection rates and ensure a safe and healthy environments for children in kindergartens. The most commonly encountered parasites were head lice, pinworms, and ticks–parasites that some preschool children could identify during interviews. While most children are familiar with parasites, they often held misconceptions about parasite characteristics are and how they spread.
This thesis aims to enhance awareness of parasitic infestations in kindergarten settings. It offers practical guidance for preschool teachers to identify common human parasites in preschool environments and provides evidence-based guidelines for prevention and containment. By consolidating essential information on parasitic identification, transmission, and management in a single resource, this work is an important contribution to support health practices in early childhood education.
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