Too Sick For School

Parents struggle sometimes to decide when it’s best to keep the kids home from school. Sometimes a child's symptoms make the decision a no-brainer. Other times, not so much. To help take the confusion out of your decision, here are a few examples of when to keep your child home.

•  Colds - colds are part of winter and the decision to keep your child home is not as clear. But, the symptoms are accompanied by a fever or wheezing, it’s best to keep them home and call the pediatrician. 

•  Fever - as a rule of thumb, children should be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school. 

• Diarrhea or Vomiting - 24 hours is also the rule of thumb for a child to return to school after an episode of vomiting or diarrhea. 

•  Sore Throat - generally, if a child has a sore throat combined with fever, headache or abdominal pain, they should be kept home and see a doctor. 

•  Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) - if your child’s eye is stuck shut, bright red, and/or oozing yellow or green discharge, these are my symptoms of pinkeye (conjunctivitis) they should be kept home and see a doctor before returning to school. 

 Why 24 Hours? 
 Waiting 24 hours before sending your child back to school reduces the risk of a virus spreading and allows parent’s to make sure your child isn’t dehydrated. Remember these are just guidelines and you know your child best. It’s always best to error on the side of caution and consult your Pediatrician regarding any of the common illnesses above if you have any questions, or concerns about your child’s symptoms, treatments or care.