Welcome to the Lead-Safe Toolkits for Child Care Providers! This comprehensive list of resources is designed to help both home- and center-based child care professionals understand and address common sources of lead exposure in their child care settings. The Lead-Safe Toolkit includes policies and worksheets for lead in paint, drinking water, soil, and consumer products, as well as a webinar series to acquaint child care providers with the toolkit and provide technical assistance about how to adopt lead prevention policies most effectively.  Developed through a collaboration between Eco-Healthy Child Care® , the National Center for Healthy Housing, and the National Association for Family Child Care, and funded by the JPB Foundation, this toolkit equips you with essential knowledge and practical strategies to reduce lead hazards where children learn and play.

Lead is a potent neurotoxicant, particularly dangerous for young children whose developing brains and bodies are more vulnerable. Even small amounts of lead exposure from sources such as paint, dust, soil, water, or consumer products can lead to lifelong learning, behavioral, and developmental issues. The good news? Lead exposure is preventable, and by implementing the guidance provided here, you can take critical steps to safeguard the children in your care.

Whether you’re a home-based provider or run a child care center, this toolkit offers valuable information on funding opportunities and actionable steps to make your environment lead-safe. Let’s work together to ensure a healthier, safer future for all children.