The Importance of Teaching Elementary Students First Aid

Teaching first aid to elementary students equips them with essential life skills that can make a real difference in emergencies. By learning basic first aid, young children gain confidence and the ability to act responsibly when faced with accidents, injuries, or other unexpected situations.

At a young age, students can grasp foundational skills like calling 911, treating minor cuts, or performing basic bandaging. These lessons not only prepare them to assist others but also instill a sense of empathy and responsibility. Imagine the impact of a child knowing how to react calmly and effectively if a classmate falls on the playground or if a family member needs immediate help.

Research suggests that first aid education teaches problem-solving and critical thinking. Students learn to assess situations quickly and prioritize safety, which are valuable skills both in and out of the classroom.

Last month, nursing student Mady Howland, came into the classroom and taught the fifth-grade class all about first aid. As part of the course “Leadership and Collaboration”, nursing students were required to complete a service learning project. This entailed, helping a population in need or providing education to better the community. In the healthcare field, it is advised to teach at a “fifth grade” level as medical terminology can be intimidating to those who are not professionals in the field. Mady asked herself the following questions as she brainstormed ideas for her project: “What is something that can be taught easily at a fifth grade level? What is something fifth graders can handle alone?” She concluded on basic injuries, which is essentially first aid. The main ideas of her presentation included a definition of basic first aid, when basic first aid is used, what is in a basic first aid kit, and how to use the items in a first aid kit. After the presentation was given, the students were provided supplies in order to build their own first aid kits and then practiced providing basic first aid with the items in the kit.

Mady states, “I thought the presentation went great! The students seemed very engaged and I was highly satisfied with the information they recalled from the presentation.”

Mady is an ICU nurse at Allen Hospital. She obtained her BSN at Allen College in 2021 and is currently attending Allen College for her DNP. She is studying to be an adult-gerontology/acute care nurse practitioner. Mady shared, “I love critical care and being there for people during life’s most vulnerable moments.”

Empowering children with these skills ensures they’re not only ready to help others but also gain the confidence to handle emergencies with poise. First aid education is more than a skill—it’s a life lesson that leaves a lasting impact.